Pak-Bangladesh ties

BANGLADESH COAS Gen Moeen Ahmed, who met President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in Islamabad on Wednesday, discussed a number of issues. One could not agree more with Mr Gilani, who while commenting on the mutual relationship, observed that the brotherly bond existing between the two countries needed to be strengthened. Similarly, one must lend an ear to General Ahmed's aspirations to cooperate with Islamabad in the areas of defence and security. India is trying to establish its hegemony in the region, and that would have adverse implications for the sovereignty of both countries. Yet, notwithstanding what both sides said on Wednesday, the fact remains that full potential of the religio-historical ties remains to be strengthened. Cooperation in a number of areas, for instance, trade, education, people-to-people contacts, among others, would be a way forward. Another matter both the countries should be looking into is the pitiable condition of the Bihari community living in refugee camps in Bangladesh. They deserve to be looked after, ensuring the provision of food, shelter and medicine. The hope ignited by General Ahmed's visit inclines one to look forward to a new chapter of ties.