Pakistani diplomats, officials can now visit Bangladesh without visa

Pakistan and Bangladesh have agreed to allow visa-free entry to diplomats and government officials in what is being described as a major step forward in bilateral relations.

The agreement was reached during a high-level meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Bangladesh’s Home Minister Lieutenant General (retired) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury in Dhaka.

The interior minister was given a guard of honour at the Ministry of Home Affairs before the two officials held detailed discussions on a range of issues.

Talks focused on strengthening cooperation in internal security, counter-terrorism, law enforcement, and tackling cross-border challenges such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.

A key outcome of the meeting was the mutual agreement to ease travel restrictions for government officials and diplomats by introducing visa-free entry.

The two sides also agreed to enhance collaboration between police forces through joint training programmes and technical exchanges. Pakistan offered its support in police training, an offer that was welcomed by the Bangladeshi side.

“This visit marks an important milestone in our bilateral relationship,” Mr Chowdhury said, referring to Mr Naqvi as a "brother" and expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s willingness to cooperate in law enforcement training.

To ensure implementation of the agreements, a joint committee will be established, with Interior Secretary Khurram Agha leading Islamabad’s side. The committee will also explore additional opportunities for collaboration in security and institutional development.

As part of the engagement, a senior delegation of Bangladesh is expected to visit Islamabad in the near future to observe Pakistan’s Safe City Project and visit the National Police Academy.