On February 16, 2026, Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Planning, departed for Dhaka to represent Pakistan at the oath-taking ceremony of Bangladesh's newly elected Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, scheduled for February 17. This event marks a significant moment in Bangladesh's political landscape, as it follows the Bangladesh National Party's (BNP) substantial victory in the recent elections, where they secured 212 out of 300 parliamentary seats, achieving a two-thirds majority. The Foreign Office of Pakistan emphasized that Iqbal's attendance underscores Pakistan's commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with Bangladesh, reflecting a mutual interest in fostering cooperative relations. As stated by the Foreign Office, "Pakistan's involvement in the event demonstrates its endorsement of Bangladesh's democratic journey and highlights the intention to bolster bilateral ties."