Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has stressed the urgency of resolving political tensions that have historically strained Bangladesh-India relations, advocating for a stronger, collaborative partnership between the two neighbors.
Speaking at a noise pollution awareness and driver retraining program in the capital on Friday, Rizwana stated, “The political clouds that once overshadowed our relations with India needed to be cleared for the benefit of both nations.” Her remarks were reported by UNB.
While recognizing the historical significance of Bangladesh’s recent mass movements, she underscored the need for a balanced approach that honors this legacy while fostering improved bilateral ties. “We cannot ignore the impact of the recent uprisings in our country as we work towards building friendly relations with India,” she added.
Rizwana also criticized the lack of progress in political reforms over the decades, urging political leaders to take responsibility for the prolonged stagnation. “If political reforms require the involvement of political parties, why have they not been implemented in the last 53 years?” she questioned, calling for immediate reform initiatives.
Earlier in the week, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus met with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Dhaka, urging India to help dissipate the political uncertainties affecting bilateral relations. According to a statement from Yunus’s office, he emphasized the importance of resolving these issues to strengthen ties.
In response, Misri expressed India’s desire for a “positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial relationship with Bangladesh,” as stated in a transcript released by the Indian foreign ministry following the meeting.