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Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi has said that promoting education and cultural exchange programmes between Pakistan and Bangladesh is in the mutual interest of both countries. He noted that the cuisines, culture and traditions of the two nations bear strong similarities.
Hashmi expressed these views during a meeting with Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hossain Khan at the Governor House. Deputy High Commissioner Muhammad Saqib Sadaqat was also present on the occasion. Khan congratulated Hashmi on assuming the office of the governor.
Hashmi said that Pakistan’s surgical instruments, footballs and leather products are in high demand across global markets. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on bilateral relations, the promotion of trade and enhancing cooperation in various sectors.
Both sides agreed that Pakistan and Bangladesh share common interests, and that strengthening coordination is essential to addressing regional challenges effectively. Khan said Bangladesh imports coal, limestone, chemicals, leather, fertilisers, cement raw materials and garments from Pakistan. Sadaqat noted that bilateral trade volume has exceeded $800 million, with a steady growth of around 20 per cent.
The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to further expand trade, investment and cooperation between the two countries.
Meeting with FCCI
Hashmi held a separate meeting with a delegation of the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) on Sunday, during which he reaffirmed the provincial leadership’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan’s industrial and commercial base.
The delegation led by FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh called on the governor and congratulated him on assuming office, while also acknowledging his public service efforts.
During the meeting, both sides held a detailed exchange of views on the country’s economic situation, and the need to enhance trade and industrial activity. The participants stressed the importance of increased cooperation at the federal level to address the challenges being faced by business owners and to promote sustainable economic growth.
Speaking on the occasion, Hashmi highlighted Faisalabad’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s economy, describing it as one of the country’s foremost industrial hubs. He remarked that business owners serve as the backbone of the national economy, and underscored the global significance of Faisalabad’s exports.
“Products from Faisalabad act as Pakistan’s brand ambassadors worldwide,” he said, adding that the city’s textile sector, including cotton yarn, fabric, bed linen, towels and hosiery, has earned international recognition and remains central to the country’s export strength.
Earlier, Sheikh gave a comprehensive briefing on the challenges being faced by industries, particularly the issues affecting production and export growth. The delegation also urged the governor to take up at the federal level the matter of relocating industries in Faisalabad to designated industrial zones.
In a further development, Sheikh invited Hashmi to attend the upcoming Faisalabad Expo in Lahore later this month as the chief guest. The governor expressed his gratitude for the invitation, and confirmed his participation.
