Lahore, June 1, 2025: President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday underlined the importance of deepening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, calling for greater cooperation and people-to-people connectivity between the two nations.
Speaking at a reception hosted in honour of the Pakistan and Bangladesh cricket teams at the Governor’s House in Lahore, President Zardari welcomed the visiting team and praised both sides for their spirited performances in the ongoing cricket series. The event was also attended by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
The president personally greeted players and officials from both teams, acknowledging the role of sports in building bridges between nations. He described Bangladesh’s cricket tour as a positive diplomatic gesture, noting that the visitors had not only represented their country as ambassadors of goodwill but also impressed with their performance on the field.
Reflecting on the history shared by the two nations, President Zardari spoke candidly about the emotional legacy of 1971. “I belong to the generation that witnessed the separation. The pain of that era still lingers — something today’s generation may not fully comprehend. It’s time to heal those wounds,” he said.
Praising the resilience and potential of the Bengali nation, he remarked: “Bangladesh was once among the richest in the region, and today, it is recognised globally as a successful country.” He added that both Pakistan and Bangladesh have been blessed with natural resources, and there is ample scope for mutual collaboration to ensure prosperity for their peoples.
President Zardari stressed the need to foster stronger ties between the younger generations of both countries. “There are vast opportunities for cooperation, and sports can serve as an effective bridge. Through such exchanges, we can build lasting friendships and promote peace in the region,” he said.
The event concluded on a note of camaraderie and shared aspirations, highlighting cricket’s role as more than just a game — a vehicle for diplomacy and unity.
