Pakistan has offered Bangladesh access to Karachi Port to boost trade and regional connectivity with China and Central Asian countries. The offer was made during the ninth Pakistan-Bangladesh Joint Economic Commission (JEC) meeting in Dhaka — the first in 20 years — marking a key step toward reviving economic and diplomatic ties. Both nations agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, IT, education, health, and tourism. Pakistan also announced 500 fully funded scholarships for Bangladeshi students and expanded technical training seats from 5 to 25. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Pakistan Halal Authority (PHA) and the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute (BSTI) to improve collaboration in halal certification and product quality standards. Officials said the new initiatives aim to enhance trade opportunities, promote mutual growth, and strengthen South Asian regional cooperation.