Yunus Urges Resolution of 1971 Issues with Pakistan’s PM Sharif at D-8 Summit
At the D-8 Summit in Cairo, Bangladeshi Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus urged Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif to resolve lingering issues from the 1971 war to foster improved bilateral relations. Both leaders discussed revitalizing SAARC and strengthening trade and cultural exchanges. Yunus emphasized the necessity of settling past disputes, while Sharif expressed readiness to reassess unresolved matters and highlighted recent strides in trade facilitation between the two countries.
During a dialogue at the D-8 Summit in Cairo, Bangladesh Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus urged Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the unresolved issues stemming from the 1971 conflict. Yunus advocated for the settlement of these matters to facilitate a more productive relationship between Bangladesh and Pakistan for future generations. They also exchanged thoughts on the restoration of SAARC, emphasizing a desire for closer trade and cultural ties between their nations. Sharif acknowledged a prior tripartite agreement concluded in 1974 but expressed willingness to revisit any remaining disputes that may exist. Additionally, both leaders underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral trade, commerce, and cultural exchanges, which includes recent developments such as the arrival of a direct cargo vessel from Karachi to Chittagong and plans for resumed direct flights between the countries.
The issues stemming from the 1971 Liberation War have been a historical point of contention between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Following the war, a tripartite agreement was reached in 1974, which sought to address the repatriation of prisoners of war and the resettlement of those affected. Despite this agreement, remnants of unresolved matters have persisted, impacting the diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. In recent years, however, there has been a push towards strengthening ties through trade and cultural cooperation, underscored by significant dialogues such as the one held at the D-8 Summit.
In summary, the discussions between Yunus and Sharif at the D-8 Summit signify a mutual recognition of the need to address lingering issues from the 1971 conflict to foster a positive relationship going forward. Their proposals for enhancing trade, reviving SAARC, and the acknowledgment of past agreements indicate a significant step towards reconciliation and collaboration between Bangladesh and Pakistan. The commitment from both leaders to strengthen bilateral relations may pave the way for future cooperation in various sectors.
Original Source: www.republicworld.com
