LAHORE: Addressing a gathering at the Governor’s House, President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s intent to strengthen bilateral relations with Bangladesh, covering commerce, trade, sports, culture, and people-to-people connections. The event, a reception for the Bangladesh and Pakistan men’s cricket teams, underscored the potential of sports, particularly cricket, as a unifying force.
President Zardari noted the ongoing efforts of the Pakistani government to build a robust partnership with Bangladesh, highlighting that such relationships require sustained investment in people and collaborative problem-solving to reach new heights.
The Bangladesh cricket team is currently in Pakistan for a three-match T20I series, concluding with the final match on Sunday night. The reception was attended by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Muhammad Iqbal Hussain, and other dignitaries, alongside team officials and players from both nations.
Zardari expressed the desire for Pakistani and Bangladeshi businesses to collaborate, emphasizing the long-term commitment required from both governments. He spoke of a promising future for the nations, driven by shared history and mutual aspirations.
Praising Bangladesh’s historical and economic achievements, President Zardari lauded its progress over the past 50 years. He acknowledged Bangladesh as a global success story in financial and human resource development, attributing its strength to divine blessings.
Reflecting on the shared history and the separation in 1971, Zardari urged reconciliation and mutual understanding, acknowledging past grievances and the need to mend relations. He highlighted the transformative potential of cricket in fostering unity and expressed his hopes for more visits in the future.
President Zardari also expressed a personal desire to visit Bangladesh, reminiscing about his student days and enduring friendships made at Pitaro Cadet College. He assured Bangladesh’s envoy of his commitment to enhancing bilateral ties.
Acknowledging the talent of the Bangladesh cricket team, Zardari wished them success and expressed similar hopes for the young Pakistani team. He emphasized the importance of the current generation seizing opportunities for a promising future.
Zardari participated in group photos with both teams and presented mementos to Bangladesh team officials, while he received a memento from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.