Jaishankar’s Visit Strengthens India-Bangladesh Relations: A Step Towards a Stronger South Asia
Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr S. Jaishankar, recently visited Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, to hold talks with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The high-level meeting between the two leaders signifies the strong and cordial relationship between India and Bangladesh, as well as the commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties.
During the meeting, Dr Jaishankar conveyed warm greetings from the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He praised Bangladesh’s remarkable progress under her leadership and acknowledged the country’s impressive economic growth and development. The Indian minister reiterated India’s steadfast support for Bangladesh’s aspirations and expressed his willingness to deepen cooperation in various sectors.
The discussions between Jaishankar and Hasina covered a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including trade, connectivity, security, and people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing trade and economic cooperation, particularly by addressing trade barriers and streamlining customs procedures. They also emphasized the importance of strengthening connectivity between the two countries through enhanced road, rail, and waterway links.
Security cooperation was another key focus of the meeting. The ministers highlighted the need for robust collaboration to combat terrorism, extremism, and cross-border crimes. They emphasized the significance of intelligence-sharing and coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and security of both nations.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed the Rohingya crisis and India’s support for a sustainable solution. India has been actively engaging with Bangladesh to address the issue and provide humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya refugees.
Dr Jaishankar’s visit to Bangladesh also witnessed the signing of several bilateral agreements in areas such as agriculture, education, and culture. These agreements aim to promote cooperation and exchange between the two countries in various fields.
The meeting between Jaishankar and Hasina reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Bangladesh to deepening their strategic partnership and advancing mutual interests. It highlighted the strong bond between the two nations based on historical, cultural, and geographical ties. The visit not only strengthened diplomatic relations but also fostered people-to-people connections, laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous South Asian region.
Re-reported from the story originally published in News 18
