DHAKA, March 31, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh High Commission in Islamabad today hosted a diplomatic reception marking Independence and National Day, with participation of senior Pakistani leaders, diplomats and dignitaries, highlighting Dhaka's push to strengthen bilateral ties and regional cooperation.

The reception and dinner were held at the ballroom of Serena Hotel in Islamabad, where Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan, along with officials of the mission, received the guests, according to a message received here today. 

Pakistan's Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain attended the function as the chief guest.

The event was also attended by the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, senators and members of the National Assembly, members of provincial assemblies, ambassadors and high commissioners of different countries, heads of UN and international organisations, senior civil and military officials, business leaders, journalists, civil society representatives, media personalities and expatriate Bangladeshis.

The programme began with the national anthems of Bangladesh and Pakistan.

In his remarks, Rana Tanveer Hussain congratulated the government and people of Bangladesh on the occasion of Independence and National Day.

He praised Bangladesh's remarkable socio-economic progress and underscored the need to further strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation for the mutual benefit of the peoples of both countries.

In his welcome address, Bangladesh High Commissioner highlighted the aspirations of the peoples of both countries to further strengthen bilateral relations and stressed enhancing mutual cooperation among South Asian nations to promote regional stability and development.

Hossain said Bangladesh remains committed to deepening cooperation with Pakistan in areas including direct air and maritime connectivity, trade and commerce, education, tourism, culture, industry, healthcare, agriculture and energy.

Referring to the government's broader foreign policy outlook, he said the current government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is working to advance development and safeguard national interests by strengthening ties with friendly countries.

The High Commissioner also sought support for Bangladesh's candidature of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman for the Presidency of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.