DHAKA, Bangladesh

Top diplomats of Bangladesh and Pakistan held talks recently to promote bilateral relations in a possible thaw, according to official sources.

"Both sides agreed to promote bilateral relations with a forward-looking approach," Pakistan's High Commissioner in Dhaka Imran Ahmed Siddiqui told Anadolu Agency on Wednesday.

Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971 following an armed conflict. Relations between the two countries, separated by large swathes of Indian territory, have since been frosty.

Referring to the talks with Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on July 1, Siddiqui added: “The two sides briefed each other on the COVID-19 situation in their respective countries and precautionary and preventive measures being taken.”

Siddiqui said: “Pakistan believes there is a huge potential in bilateral economic and commercial cooperation. We must work together to realize this potential with a focus on bringing our respective private sectors closer.”

“We want stronger relations with brotherly Bangladesh in all walks of life. We share common bonds of history, religion and culture,” he added.

The Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry did not issue a statement about the meeting.