Sajjad Hussain
To celebrate the 51st Anniversary of the independence of Bangladesh, National Day celebration reception was hosted by His Excellency Mr. Md. Ruhul Alam Siddiqui – High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan at Islamabad.
Federal Minister for Food Security & Research Syed Fakhar Imam graced the occassion as the Guest of Honour, while diplomats and officers from the armed forces of the diplomatic corps also attended the ceremony.
The ceremony kicked off with the national anthems of Bangladesh and Pakistan, after which a speech was delivered by H.E Mr. Md. Ruhul Alam Siddiqui – High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Pakistan.
The High Commissioner also talked about sustainable development; women empowerment; education and healthcare system of Bangladesh. He also paid tributes to the father of the nation. Similarly, he also highlighted the achievements of the incumbent government spearheaded by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed.
His Excellency said that Bangladesh and Pakistan relations are coridial and based on shared history, culture and values. He further said that the relationship is rooted in the common desire of realizing the goals of regional peace and stability.
After the speech, a documentary regarding the history, achievements, potential of Bangladesh was also screened on the occassion while a cake-cutting ceremony was also held.
Bilateral Trade:
Regarding Pakistan-Bangladesh bilateral trade, His Excellency said “I am pleased to share with you that the trade volume between the two countries has increased despite the Covid pandemic’.
The bilateral trade has registered a sharp increase. During this period from July to December exports of Pakistan to Bangladesh rose by 25 per cent while Bangladesh exports to Pakistan rose by 38 per cent, which is indeed an encouraging development.
The High Commissioner further said due to the robust economic growth of his country the foreign exchange reserves have swelled to USD 45 billion besides substantial increase in the per capita income. He said his country had registered growth rate at 7 per cent adding the average life expectancy was 72 years now.
