Bangladeshi High Commissioner Highlights Popularity of Pakistani Dramas in Bangladesh

The Bangladeshi High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohammad Ruhel Alom Siddique, has acknowledged the widespread appeal of Pakistani drama serials in Bangladesh, mentioning that his wife enjoys watching channels dedicated to Pakistani cuisine.

Addressing a seminar organized by the Karachi Council of Foreign Relations, Siddique discussed the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations, noting that trade activities have been hindered in recent years due to the suspension of direct shipping routes.

He remarked that the Dhaka-Karachi route is a lucrative one for Pakistan International Airlines, underscoring the significance of people-to-people connections for fostering diplomatic relations. The High Commissioner also highlighted the geopolitical challenges faced by Bangladesh and announced that the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh is set to meet with the Pakistani Prime Minister at an upcoming UN gathering.

Siddique noted that while Pakistan exports cotton to Bangladesh, recent drops in cotton production have limited import capacity. He emphasized the participation of Pakistani artists in various cultural festivals, while also calling attention to the need for resolving visa issues to promote greater cultural exchange.

Nadra Punjwani, Chairperson of the Karachi Council of Foreign Relations, added that many Bangladeshis are eager to visit Pakistan. She revealed that the Pakistani High Commissioner in Dhaka has engaged with a private airline to address ongoing visa restrictions, which have been in place since August 2013.

She stressed the necessity of easing the visa process and dispelling misconceptions about traveling to Pakistan, particularly concerns regarding Indian visa acquisition when traveling through the country.