Pakistan, Dec. 29 -- Pakistan and Bangladesh share historical roots, language, and culture, having been one nation until 1971. Both countries began as agrarian economies with similar challenges of poverty, illiteracy, and political instability. However, their trajectories diverged sharply after Bangladesh's independence.

For instance, in 1971, Pakistan's GDP was $10.67 billion, surpassing Bangladesh's $8.75 billion. By 2000, Pakistan led with $99.48 billion, but Bangladesh's consistent growth closed the gap. By 2017, Bangladesh reached $293.73 billion, nearing Pakistan's $339.21 billion, and by 2023, Bangladesh surged ahead with $437.42 billion against Pakistan's $337.91 billion. Bangladesh's average GDP growth rate of was 6.48 percent o...