A visit by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Bangladesh, initially intended to foster improved relations, has instead highlighted existing strains. The core issue revolves around Pakistan’s refusal to apologize for the atrocities committed against Bangladeshis in 1971. This stance has been met with firm resolve from the Bangladeshi side, who have indicated they will not let the matter rest. Dar’s assertion that discussions regarding an apology had taken place in 1974 and 2002 was immediately disputed by his Bangladeshi counterpart, Md. Touhid Hossain, indicating a significant disagreement on the historical narrative. Efforts to normalize relations have been complicated by unresolved issues stemming from the 1971 conflict, despite attempts at diplomatic reconciliation, including meetings between Bangladeshi and Pakistani officials.
