LAHORE – Bangladesh High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan has announced that Mahan Air is expected to operate three weekly flights between Karachi and Dhaka starting next month, a development that promises to strengthen trade ties and improve connectivity between the two nations.
Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), the envoy revealed that the visa process has been simplified for businessmen. Visas are now being issued within three to four days on the joint recommendation of LCCI and the Bangladesh Honorary Consulate in Lahore, making travel between Pakistan and Bangladesh quicker and more convenient.
High Commissioner Khan highlighted the growing trade opportunities between the countries. Pakistan could export rice to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh may supply fresh pineapples. Both nations also have significant potential in textiles, ready-made garments, IT, and the automobile sector.
He further noted that a direct cargo shipping service would soon be launched to meet rising trade demands, complementing the existing cargo service operational since last December.
In the education sector, Khan encouraged collaboration between universities, announcing that Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission will soon send a delegation of representatives from 12 universities to Bangladesh to attract more Bangladeshi students. He also pointed out tourism as a promising sector, highlighting the shared history, culture, and values that connect both nations.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the historical and cultural ties and reiterating that direct flights would further enhance trade relations. He expressed readiness to lead a delegation to Dhaka in response to the high commissioner’s invitation.
Currently, bilateral trade stands at approximately $700 million, but both sides see potential to increase it to $3 billion over the coming years. The new flight service is expected to act as a key driver in achieving this growth.
