Pakistan, Bangladesh agree to strengthen sports ties

DHAKA (Dunya News) – Pakistan and Bangladesh have reached an understanding on cooperation in cricket development and umpire training programmes.

Federal Interior Minister and Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, held an important meeting with Asif Mahmood, Bangladesh’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Local Government, and Rural Development.

The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in sports, particularly cricket, and expanding collaboration in youth empowerment and technological development.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to formalise a partnership between PCB and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) through an official agreement.

Discussions were held on advancing women's cricket development through joint efforts.

Minister Naqvi extended an invitation to Bangladeshi umpires to undergo training in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of shared learning and technical development in sports officiating.

The leaders also highlighted the need for joint initiatives in youth skill development and employment opportunities.

Renewable energy, particularly innovation in solar technology, was also discussed as a potential area for enhanced cooperation.

Minister Naqvi briefed the Bangladeshi minister on Pakistan’s secure identity documentation system managed by NADRA.

A high-level Bangladeshi delegation is expected to visit Pakistan soon to explore NADRA's advanced security systems.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that with youth forming the majority population in both countries, sports can play a vital role in promoting youth development and regional cooperation.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including Mahbub Alam, Secretary of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Sports and Youth, Raza Maqsood, Secretary of Local Government, Pakistan High Commission’s Head of Mission Muhammad Wasif, cricket team head coach Mike Hesson, team manager Naveed Akram Cheema, and other dignitaries.

This high-level engagement marks a promising step toward stronger multidimensional ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, particularly in youth, sports, education, and renewable energy.