Direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi are set to launch in December, with Mahan Air operating three services per week, announced Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Iqbal Hussain Khan.

Speaking at a Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) event, the High Commissioner noted that visa procedures have been simplified for business travelers, with visas being issued within three to four days based on joint recommendations from LCCI and Bangladesh’s Honorary Consulate in Lahore.

Iqbal Hussain Khan emphasized that the initiative aims to enhance trade and strengthen bilateral connectivity, with direct cargo shipping services expected to start soon. He highlighted opportunities for rice exports from Karachi to Dhaka, fresh pineapple imports from Dhaka to Karachi, and growth prospects in the textile and ready-made garment sectors.

On education, he revealed that Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission will soon send a delegation of representatives from 12 universities to Bangladesh to attract more Bangladeshi students to study in Pakistan.

LCCI President Fahimur Rahman Saigol underscored the historic and cultural ties between the two countries and highlighted potential collaborations in IT, automotive, and other sectors, alongside knowledge sharing in the garments industry.