DHAKA: In a further sign of its intention to bring Bangladesh closer to Islamabad, the interim government has reportedly removed the requirement for Pakistani nationals to obtain security clearance before applying for visas. The important decision was informed, according to local media reports, by the Home Ministry’s Security Services Division (SSD) to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, the government refrained from commenting on the decision.
From 2019, Pakistani nationals are required to obtain a “no objection” certificate from SSD before issuing a Bangladeshi visa. The move was introduced as part of a broader security protocol amid ongoing political and diplomatic tensions.
The waiver of the clearance requirement is interpreted by many as a sign of improved Pakistan-Bangladesh relations under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. This comes barely a month after the government approved direct cargo ship traffic from Karachi to Chittagong in November.
On December 3, Pakistan High Commissioner In Bangladesh, Syed Ahmad Maruf paid a courtesy call on BNP’s Begum Khaleda Zia at her home.
Pakistanis can now enter Bangladesh without security clearance
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