Pakistan Send First Direct Cargo To Bangladesh

Pakistan Sends First Direct Cargo To Bangladesh

For the first time, a cargo ship from Pakistan has docked directly at the Chittagong port in Bangladesh, establishing a historic maritime link between the two countries.

The “Yuanxianfazhong” arrived on November 13, carrying raw materials for Bangladesh’s textile and ceramic industries.

Previously, trade between the two countries relied on third-country ports such as Singapore or Sri Lanka. Commerce Ministry officials said the direct route will reduce transportation costs and speed delivery.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Ma’ruf, said the new direct route is a big step forward for trade. He said it will speed up existing trade and bring new business opportunities in both countries.

The cargo ship departed from Dubai, stopped in Karachi, transported goods to Bangladesh, and then went to Chittagong. Chittagong Port Authority officials called it a historic moment for regional trade.

The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, is exploring closer relations with Pakistan. Since taking office in August, Yunus has been committed to strengthening regional cooperation.

He recently met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed promoting trade and reinvigorating the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Experts see the move as a change in Bangladesh’s foreign policy. Under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, relations with Pakistan had become strained due to Pakistan’s role in the 1971 Liberation War.

Political analysts believe this new trade link could affect Bangladesh’s relations with India, which has been Bangladesh’s key ally for decades. Professor Imtiaz Ahmed said reinvigorating SAARC or forming a new alliance without India’s support could pose a challenge.

While the direct route is expected to boost trade, analysts say Bangladesh needs to manage its foreign relations carefully to maintain regional balance.