'Bangladesh, Pakistan to work for regional coop'

He expressed the hope when the newly appointed High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh, Alamgir Bashar Khan presented his credentials to the President at Bangabhaban on Thursday.

Welcoming new envoy to Bangladesh, Iajuddin mentioned the cordial bilateral relations existing between the two countries and reiterated Dhaka's determination to further consolidate and develop relations with Pakistan.

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He told the envoy that the Saarc Summit would be held November 12-13.

He appreciated Pakistan's role as the current chair in further strengthening the Saarc.

The President expressed satisfaction about the outcome of the recently concluded foreign secretary level consultations between the two countries. "Our two countries should focus more on realising the full potential of our economic cooperation," he said.

He said Bangladesh has a range of exportable items at competitive pricing, like pharmaceuticals, jute, ceramic, and readymade garments.

The envoy termed the relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh excellent. Pakistan has agreed to take initiative to reduce trade gap between the two countries, he said.

Bashar Khan also expressed the desire of Pakistan to give more scholarships to Bangladeshi students. He assured that there would be more wide-bodied PIA flights from Dhaka to Karachi.