Dhaka, Feb 25 (Reporter) Bangladesh has resumed direct trade with Pakistan for the first time since its independence in 1971, with 50,000 tonnes of rice being imported by Dhaka under a government-to-government deal. The deal follows an improvement in diplomatic relations since the army-backed Interim Government took power in Bangladesh in August 2024 following the ouster of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Previously known as East Pakistan, Bangladesh won independence following a nine-month war. Under the new agreement, finalized earlier this month, Bangladesh will purchase white rice from Pakistan at $499 per tonne through the Trading Corporation of Pakistan, Daily Star reported. The shipment will be delivered in two phases, with the remaining 25,000 tonnes expected in early March. However, the price of Pakistani white rice is higher than rice imported from Vietnam, which Bangladesh has been importing at $474.25 per tonne. The Mohammed Younus led Interim Government has been battling to stabilize the rice market, as prices have risen by 15-20% in recent months, with medium-quality rice selling at around 80 taka ($0.66) per kilo. To control rice prices, the government is importing more rice from international markets, including through tenders, and has scrapped import duties, the report said...////...