Dhaka, Sept 10:
Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi met Bangladesh President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and discussed ways to strengthen the deep-rooted and multifaceted relationship between the two neighbouring countries.
The meeting was Trivedi’s first with Alamgir since the latter assumed office. Alamgir was sworn in as Bangladesh President on August 21. Trivedi paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban and conveyed India’s greetings and best wishes for his tenure.
The Indian High Commission said the meeting highlighted the close bonds between India and Bangladesh, built on shared history, cultural links and strong people-to-people relations.
Both sides stressed the importance of strengthening the bilateral partnership for the mutual benefit of the people of the two countries. The talks come at a time when New Delhi and Dhaka are seeking to maintain diplomatic engagement after a period of strained relations.
Trivedi later met Bangladesh Minister for Shipping, Railways, Road Transport and Bridges Sheikh Rabiul Alam. State Minister for Road, Highways and Railways Habibur Rashid also attended the meeting.
The discussions covered railways, shipping, connectivity and bilateral development projects. The two sides emphasised the importance of improving connectivity as a key factor in boosting economic engagement and strengthening people-to-people contacts.
India-Bangladesh relations have faced challenges following the political developments in Bangladesh in 2024 and New Delhi’s decision to provide asylum to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after she left Bangladesh following the youth-led agitation.
Despite the difficulties, India has continued diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh. Trivedi has recently held meetings with several senior political leaders, including Prime Minister Rahman, with the objective of creating conditions for deeper bilateral engagement.
Connectivity, transport, trade and development projects are expected to remain important areas of cooperation between the two countries. The latest meetings indicate efforts on both sides to keep communication channels open and strengthen the relationship.