By Sumi Khan

Dhaka, Jan 7 (IANS): Bangladesh has sought an official apology from Pakistan for the genocide committed against the people of the country during the Liberation War of 1971, along with completing the repatriation of Pakistanis stranded in Bangladesh and settling the issue of the division of assets, said State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam on Thursday.

"In line with that spirit, we look forward to engage with Pakistan," Alam told the High Commissioner of Pakistan Imran Ahmed Siddiqui when he paid a courtesy call on the Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Welcoming the Pakistani High Commissioner, the Minister emphasised that enhancing ties with all the neighbouring countries is a part of the Bangladesh government's foreign policy priority.

Alam reiterated the importance of resolving outstanding bilateral issues with Pakistan.

He urged Pakistan to grant access to more Bangladeshi products by utilising the existing SAFTA provisions, while relaxing the negative list and removing trade barriers.

Siddiqui assured of giving due diligence to advancing bilateral relations in every possible area.

Both sides agreed on the need to hold the long-pending Foreign Office Consultations, which were last held in 2010.

Alam said that he will extend all kinds of cooperation and assistance to the Pakistani High Commissioner during his tenure in Dhaka.