Pakistan, Bangladesh plan to launch passenger, cargo shipping services

February 12, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Bangladesh have agreed to initiate passenger and cargo shipping services to enhance maritime cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties, the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) stated.

The decision follows a meeting between Bangladesh High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan and PNSC Chairman Sultan Ahmed Chawla, where both sides explored avenues for deeper collaboration in trade, industry, and maritime logistics.

Pakistan and Bangladesh, once part of the same country before their separation in 1971, have recently seen a warming of relations, particularly after the ouster of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The change in leadership, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus heading Bangladesh’s interim government, has led to increased diplomatic and economic engagements between the two nations.

The planned shipping service is part of broader efforts to improve connectivity. It follows recent interactions between top officials, including two meetings between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Bangladesh’s interim leader.

Other initiatives include discussions on direct flights between Dhaka, Islamabad, and Karachi, and agreements such as the establishment of a joint business council and a memorandum of understanding for rice exports.

Bangladesh High Commissioner Khan welcomed the maritime initiative, emphasizing its potential to boost trade and diplomatic relations, according to the press release.

PNSC Chairman Chawla reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to supporting regional trade and ensuring smooth logistics between the two countries.

Both sides expressed confidence that the new shipping services would pave the way for further cooperation in the maritime sector, fostering economic growth and stronger regional connectivity.

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