Pakistan PM Shehbaz congratulates Tarique on win, pledges to stay in ‘close contact’

The prime minister invites Tarique to visit Islamabad at his “earliest convenience”, Pakistan’s PMO says

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has held a telephone conversation with Tarique Rahman to congratulate him on the BNP’s “historic and resounding victory” in the general election.

In a media statement on Friday, Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed the discussion between the two leaders.

According to the statement, Shehbaz invited Tarique to visit Pakistan at his “earliest convenience”.

The BNP chairman, in turn, extended an invitation to Shehbaz.

“Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact in the coming days for the mutual benefit of the people of both nations,” the statement read.

The Pakistani PMO said the prime minister congratulated the people of Bangladesh on the successful conduct of the general election, stating it reflected the democratic ideals and values espoused by the Bangladeshi nation.

Recalling the “historic and brotherly ties” between the countries, the premier expressed his desire to work alongside the Bangladeshi leadership.

He emphasised strengthening bilateral cooperation on matters of mutual interest, while respecting each other's sovereignty to ensure regional peace and progress.

During their conversation, both leaders fondly recalled former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia and paid tribute to her remarkable contributions to Dhaka-Islamabad relations, and her key role in bringing the people of both countries closer.