Dhaka's agrarian outreach

Pakistan and Bangladesh have come a long way in strengthening bilateral cooperation since the fall of Hasina Wajid's government. That is a laudable achievement and signals a pragmatic, interest-driven policy of regionalism. Dhaka intends to recalibrate its engagement based on shared interests rather than historical grievances. The resulting diplomatic momentum has likewise been swift, with both countries restoring aviation and maritime linkages, increasing their trade volume by 20%, and inking new business agreements.

The high-powered interaction between the Bangladesh Ministry of Industries and a Pakistani delegation led by the Trading Corporation of Pakistan has pushed the envelope further, and a MoU on agrarian trade is on the cards. While Pakistan has a surplus production in grains, Dhaka has expressed an interest in importing rice, lentils, chickpeas, fertilisers and edible oil. Similarly, Pakistan after a hiatus of decades will be importing jute and jute-based products. Moreover, the proposed amalgamation in the industrial sector is a win-win equation. Islamabad's offer to assist Bangladesh in ensuring competitive supplies from international sources is another laudable outreach. All that is desired is to walk the talk and double down on identifying tariff reductions and easing logistical movements to make trade more efficient in real-time.

Luckily, this reset is not limited to bilateral economics. Both states also have a collective vision for the region. The desire on their part to revitalise SAARC is a good omen, and would come to benefit eight member states of the group. But India's hegemonic attitude nonetheless is an obstacle, but Dhaka sought to subdue that impediment by saying that the organisation can move forward without New Delhi. The growing role of China in the region and Bangladesh's versatility in Southeast Asia are other factors that foment a united front between Islamabad and Dhaka.