Bangladesh-India relations need to become more people-focused, according to Touhid Hossain, the de facto foreign minister, on Monday. He stated that during former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, ties were limited to certain parties and individuals. Hossain emphasised the need for the general public in both countries to believe that bilateral relations are strong.
Both Hasina and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi frequently described their countries’ relations as a “Shonali Odhyay” (golden chapter). Following Hasina’s departure to India on August 5, some political factions in Bangladesh have criticised New Delhi for focusing too much on relations with the Awami League.
Hossain suggested appropriate measures could ease public discontent and further develop bilateral relations.
On Sunday, Hossain mentioned India would decide on sending Hasina back to Bangladesh if requested. He also noted the interim government might ask for her return if directed by the courts.
During the Monday briefing, Hossain stated that Indian media reports on the “revolution” led by Bangladeshi students and the public were exaggerated. He noted that other international media, known for their impartiality, did not share this perspective.
Hossain acknowledged tensions between Hasina’s government and Western countries but said these issues align with the interim government and students’ movement agendas, eliminating any scope for conflict.
Regarding Bangladesh’s relations with Pakistan, Touhid Hossain expressed a desire for friendly and dynamic relations with all nations. He noted past tensions with Pakistan but hoped for a normal relationship moving forward.
Interim government head Muhammad Yunus plans to travel to New York with a small delegation for the upcoming UN General Assembly.
In a related development, Indian high commissioner Pranay Verma met with de facto home minister Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Monday. They discussed mutual interests, including police cooperation, border security, and the safety of Indian nationals.
Both agreed on enhancing border security to reduce border killings. Verma sought Chowdhury’s cooperation for the safety of Indian students and citizens in Bangladesh. Chowdhury assured Verma that Indian students could return to resume their education.
The two countries also discussed working together on flood warnings and forecasts, with India providing necessary data and information. Verma mentioned that Indian visa centres have reopened with limited capacity for urgent medical and educational travel for Bangladeshi nationals.
Pakistan’s high commissioner Ahmad Maroof also met Chowdhury, calling for improved bilateral ties. Both agreed to facilitate mutual visa arrangements. Maroof announced a new visa policy allowing citizens from 126 countries, including Bangladesh, to travel to Pakistan without visas.
He highlighted the need to resume direct flights between Bangladesh and Pakistan, noting the last such flight was in 2018 by Pakistan International Airlines.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Al Jazeera reports that the current strained India-Bangladesh relations are due to floods, visas, and Sheikh Hasina’s ousting, with India blamed for the floods and visa issues. (read more)
- India-Bangladesh Relations discusses the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India, emphasizing areas of contention such as water sharing, border killings, and illegal immigration, alongside cooperative initiatives like trade and infrastructure projects. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What did Touhid Hossain say about Bangladesh-India relations?
He said relations should be more people-centric, not limited to a party or individuals.
Why did some political parties criticize New Delhi after Hasina stepped down?
They criticised New Delhi for focusing too much on relations with the Awami League.
What did Hossain say about media reports on Bangladesh’s recent developments?
He said Indian media reports were exaggerated and other international outlets were more objective.
What was discussed between the Indian high commissioner and Bangladesh’s home minister?
They discussed police cooperation, border security, safety of Indian nationals, and flood warnings.
What did Pakistan’s high commissioner suggest to improve relations with Bangladesh?
He suggested resuming direct flights and announced a new visa policy for Bangladeshi citizens.