DHAKA, Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (WNP): Pakistan and Bangladesh on Wednesday agreed in principle to grant visa-free entry to holders of diplomatic and official passports, signaling a new era of cooperation between the two South Asian nations in a significant diplomatic breakthrough.

The development came during a high-level meeting in Dhaka between Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Bangladesh’s Home Minister, Lieutenant General (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. Minister Naqvi, on an official visit to Bangladesh, was welcomed with a guard of honour upon arrival at the Ministry of Home Affairs.

In wide-ranging talks, both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of internal security, counter-terrorism, drug trafficking, and anti-human smuggling efforts.

“The agreement on visa-free travel for officials and diplomats marks a critical step forward in facilitating smoother bilateral engagement and reducing bureaucratic barriers,” said officials familiar with the discussions.

Beyond visa facilitation, both sides explored deeper collaboration in law enforcement training. Pakistan offered to support capacity-building for Bangladeshi law enforcement personnel, including training opportunities at police academies and technical exchanges.

Bangladesh’s Home Minister described Minister Naqvi’s visit as “a milestone in advancing bilateral ties,” adding, “I wholeheartedly welcome my brother to Dhaka. This visit is of great significance to the future of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.”

To ensure effective implementation of the decisions, the two countries agreed to establish a joint coordination committee. Pakistan’s Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Agha will lead the Pakistani side in steering follow-up actions and identifying new areas of cooperation.

As part of the growing partnership, a high-level Bangladeshi delegation is scheduled to visit Islamabad soon to review Pakistan’s Safe City Project and tour the National Police Academy.

Attended by senior officials and diplomats from both sides, the meeting is being hailed as a turning point in rebuilding trust and advancing security and diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Dhaka.