Bangladesh has formally demanded $4.32 billion from Pakistan as its rightful share of the assets of undivided Pakistan prior to 1971 and has also called for a formal apology for the genocide committed by Pakistani armed forces during the Liberation War.

These demands were raised during the Foreign Secretary-level Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) held in Dhaka — the first such meeting in 15 years. Bangladesh was represented by Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin, while Pakistan’s delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch.

In addition to the demand for the division of pre-1971 assets, Bangladesh also requested $200 million in foreign aid that was sent to East Pakistan following the devastating Bhola cyclone.

“As a friendly neighbor in South Asia, we want to resolve historic issues and build a forward-looking relationship,” Uddin told reporters following the talks. “A solid foundation for our relations requires that these unresolved issues be addressed.”

The Pakistani side did not offer comments on the outcome of the discussions, according to local media.

During her visit, Baloch also met with Bangladesh’s interim government Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain to discuss mutual cooperation and trade opportunities.

Yunus acknowledged that past tensions remain but urged both nations to overcome hurdles and focus on building stronger economic and diplomatic ties.

Referring to historical challenges, Baloch stated, “We must find ways to harness the potential between our countries. We can’t afford to miss opportunities in our own regional markets.”

The FOC talks marked a renewal of formal dialogue between the two countries, last held in 2010. Following the meeting, Uddin confirmed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit Dhaka on April 27-28 — the first such visit by a Pakistani Foreign Minister since 2012.

Ahead of Dar’s visit, a working group has been formed between the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka and the Bangladeshi government to finalize the agreements expected to be signed.