India has been a friend to Bangladesh since the war of liberation in 1971. Since then there has been a good show of faith and goodwill between the two countries. Almost once every year, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seen to visit India to pay courtesy call on her Indian counterpart to talk about issues of mutual interest. And sometimes, the reverse is also seen. These are hallmarks of how a strong friendship can be maintained between neighbours to strive for mutual prosperity.
The two nations have come closer over a decade-long engagement that began with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s return to power in 2008. There has been an improvement in the strategic sphere, and alignment on regional and global issues, connectivity and trade. Also with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely arrival to Dhaka for celebrating Mujib Barsho later this month is also a show of enormous respect for the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
There has been an improvement
in the strategic sphere, and alignment
on regional and global issues,
connectivity and trade
We welcome India’s intentions of making deeper ties with Bangladesh. This upcoming visit from the Indian Prime Minister is sure to open up new avenues of cooperation between the two countries. India’s continued partnership with Bangladesh benefits both countries. New Delhi must keep up the partnership that allows for economic growth and improved developmental parameters for both countries.
The strong mutually beneficial partnership between India and Bangladesh must deliver on its promise. It is welcoming that the government has assured Bangladesh that the National Register of Citizens will not affect Bangladesh.
The authorities of the two countries should maintain proper and strong ties to find solutions of unsolved issues. But, currently all focus is on Mujib Barsho and we welcome any new positive initiative from India at this moment.
