Bangladesh’s foreign advisor, Md. Touhid Hossain, stresses the importance of strong relations with India, following a meeting with Dr. Jaishankar. He assures that Bangladesh’s improving ties with Pakistan will not jeopardize Indian security and highlights ongoing trade improvements. Hossain also addresses minority rights in Bangladesh, border management, and the context of U.S. relations under the Trump administration. He denotes the significance of youth aspirations in shaping future political reforms in Bangladesh.
Md. Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s foreign advisor, emphasized the importance of strong ties with India, referring to their relationship as “close” and stressing the need for “mutually beneficial good relations.” During an interview with WION, following his meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Hossain highlighted their mutual understanding and ongoing discussions aimed at improving bilateral relations. This meeting marked the second foreign ministers’ meeting between Bangladesh and India since last year.
When questioned about the impact of Bangladesh’s relations with Pakistan on India’s security, Hossain assured that enhancing ties with Islamabad would not undermine Indian security, stating, “we are not going to do anything that impacts the internal security of India, no, not at all.” Relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan are reportedly improving, especially following the political changes in Bangladesh post-August 2024.
In the interview, Hossain noted steps taken by Bangladesh to facilitate better trade relations with India, mentioning that previous trade stoppages have ended, and interactions between foreign secretaries have also occurred. He conveyed optimism about upcoming bilateral meetings to address various issues, including trade and border management.
Hossain addressed concerns raised about the situation of minorities in Bangladesh, asserting that the government ensures equal rights and protections for all citizens, irrespective of their religious backgrounds. He dismissed the minority issue as frequently exaggerated, asserting that the government is actively managing these relations.
On border issues, Hossain criticized any lethal actions taken against civilians by the Indian Border Security Force, emphasizing the need for friendly nations to manage borders without resorting to violence. No proposals have been made to revise existing border agreements, according to Hossain.
The Foreign Advisor alluded to the enhancement of ties with Pakistan, noting the normalization of relations without compromising Bangladesh’s partnership with India. He dismissed the narrative that Bangladesh’s relations with Pakistan would jeopardize Indian security, maintaining a stance of neutrality in regional diplomatic matters.
In regards to the Trump administration, Hossain articulated Bangladesh’s interest in sustaining relations with the U.S., asserting that any shift in U.S. policy would be met with adaptability from Bangladesh. Hossain emphasized the significance of the U.S. as a key market for Bangladeshi exports and as a source of remittances.
Addressing the demolition of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residences in Dhaka, Hossain commented on it as an internal affair while asserting that Bangladesh’s identity is not solely tied to a single building. He maintained that the matter does not warrant concern from India.
Concerning the upcoming Ramadan, Hossain stated that import-export relations will be driven by market interests rather than diplomatic requests. On Indian projects in Bangladesh, he reassured that ongoing cooperation continues to develop and that there are no current suspensions on initiatives connecting India’s northeast to Bangladeshi ports.
While unable to confirm a timeline for national elections in Bangladesh, Hossain highlighted the aspirations of the youth in enacting political reforms to improve the electoral process. He mentioned ongoing discussions among political leaders aiming to fulfill the electorate’s demands for change and progress.
In conclusion, Md. Touhid Hossain’s remarks reinforce Bangladesh’s commitment to fostering a beneficial relationship with India while navigating its evolving ties with Pakistan. He reassured that Bangladesh’s foreign policy will not compromise India’s security and addressed ongoing issues concerning trade, border management, and minority rights. As Bangladesh prepares for political reforms, there is an emphasis on the aspirations of the youth—a central motif in the country’s evolving political landscape.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
