India, Feb. 24 -- Dhaka and Islamabad have resumed direct trade for the first time since the 1971 war that led to the formation of Bangladesh in South Asia.

Bangladesh, an independent nation, was formed, ending Pakistan's control over it.

Meanwhile, the trade between the two nations began with the first government-approved cargo departing from Pakistan's Port Qasim, media reports said.

The rice shipment will be delivered in two phases, with the first 25,000-tonne consignment now en route to Bangladesh, the newspaper reported.

The second batch is likely to depart in early March.

This trade deal is expected to strengthen economic ties between the two nations and facilitate direct shipping routes, The Express Tribune reported.

The agre...