Unresolved 1971 Issues Resolved Twice: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister

Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, currently on an official visit to Dhaka, has stated that the longstanding unresolved issues between Bangladesh and Pakistan—including the demand for an apology for the 1971 genocide—have been resolved twice in the past. He emphasised that it is now time to move forward.

On Sunday (24 August), a private meeting was held at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka between Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain and Ishaq Dar. Following their one-on-one discussion, a delegation-level meeting took place between representatives of both countries.

After the meetings, it was reported that six agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed between Bangladesh and Pakistan. Ishaq Dar addressed the media at the hotel, elaborating on the historical context of the discussions.

Responding to questions regarding unresolved issues linked to the 1971 Liberation War and genocide, Ishaq Dar said: “Regarding the unresolved matters, I would like to say that the 1971 issue was first addressed in 1974. The documents from that period are historically significant for both countries.”

He added that the matter was later further resolved when General Pervez Musharraf visited Bangladesh, publicly expressing regret, thereby marking the second resolution of these issues—once in 1974 and again in the early 2000s.

Dar emphasised the need to move forward, quoting Islamic guidance: “Islam teaches us to purify our hearts. You should cleanse your hearts. We must now progress forward.”

On the first day of his visit, Saturday, Ishaq Dar met with leaders of BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and the National Citizens’ Party (NCP). Additionally, he attended a reception at Pakistan House, engaging with various dignitaries.

On Sunday, the second day of his Dhaka visit, he is scheduled to meet Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the Caretaker Government.

Summary of Key Outcomes

Dar’s visit represents an effort by Islamabad to reinforce bilateral ties while emphasising reconciliation and forward-looking cooperation.