The federal government is reportedly considering inviting Tarique Rahman as the chief guest for next month’s Pakistan Day parade, with a final decision on the proposed visit schedule expected next week, according to diplomatic sources.
Sources said Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, Federal Minister and Secretary General of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, reiterated an invitation on behalf of Shehbaz Sharif during his recent visit to Bangladesh.
Ahsan Iqbal attended Rahman’s oath-taking ceremony last week, where he conveyed Islamabad’s desire for an early visit by the Bangladeshi premier.
According to the same sources, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman responded positively to the invitation, signaling openness to enhanced diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
Dhaka Signals Willingness to Deepen Ties
Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan, has also indicated strong interest in closer relations, stating that the government and people of Bangladesh are keen to further strengthen bilateral ties with Pakistan.
Separately, diplomatic sources revealed that Rahman has chosen Bhutan as the destination for his first foreign visit as prime minister.
The decision is being viewed as a reciprocal diplomatic gesture after Tshering Tobgay attended Rahman’s oath-taking ceremony—reportedly the only head of government from the SAARC region to do so.
Potential Diplomatic Milestone
If confirmed, a visit to Pakistan coinciding with the March 23 Pakistan Day parade would mark a high-profile diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Dhaka, reflecting a renewed willingness on both sides to move past historical differences and pursue stronger political and economic cooperation.
Observers say the potential visit could open the door to expanded dialogue on trade, regional connectivity, and people-to-people contacts, as both governments signal a fresh approach to bilateral relations.
