India is committed to fostering a positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relationship with Bangladesh, according to Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Speaking during his visit to Dhaka on Monday, Misri emphasized India’s intent to collaborate closely with Bangladesh’s interim government.
“India desires to work closely with the interim government of Bangladesh authorities,” Misri stated after a meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain in the afternoon.
Earlier in the day, Misri arrived in Dhaka aboard a special Indian Air Force flight amid heightened tensions between the neighboring countries. This marks his inaugural visit to Bangladesh as Foreign Secretary.
He was received at Kurmitola Airport by Ishrat Jahan, Director General of the South Asia desk at Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Misri highlighted the longstanding partnership between India and Bangladesh, describing it as people-centric and focused on mutual benefit. “Today’s discussions allowed us to assess our relations comprehensively. I appreciate the candid and constructive exchange of views,” he said.
He further underscored the importance of a partnership rooted in shared prosperity. “Our relationship has always been driven by the welfare of our peoples. It is reflected in our cooperation across various domains, including trade, connectivity, energy, and cultural exchanges,” Misri noted.
He expressed confidence in the continuity of mutually beneficial engagement, adding, “There is no reason why this cooperation should not continue to serve the interests of both nations.”
Addressing Key Concerns
The discussions also touched on sensitive issues, including the safety and welfare of minorities. Misri acknowledged some recent incidents involving attacks on cultural, religious, and diplomatic properties, urging constructive engagement from the Bangladeshi authorities to address these concerns.
“A constructive approach to these matters will help move the relationship forward in a positive direction,” he said.
High-Level Engagement
Misri also highlighted the ongoing dialogue between the two nations’ leadership. He noted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, upon his appointment in August.
Subsequent interactions, including Yunus’s participation in the third Voice of the Global South Summit, have underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation. Misri added that meetings between the External Affairs Minister and Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser at the UN General Assembly in September further reinforced this partnership.
Misri’s visit represents the first structured engagement at the Foreign Secretary level since the political changes in Bangladesh earlier this year. The discussions aim to pave the way for a stronger and more constructive relationship between the two nations.