Foreign-Affairs
Dhaka urges OIC-UNHCR joint delegation to mobilize robust international support for sustainable solution to Rohingya crisis
Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen has said ensuring accountability for the atrocities committed against Rohingyas, as well as repatriation of the Rohingyas to their ancestral homeland, Myanmar or third country resettlement- are sustainable solutions to the Rohingya crisis.
He said this during a meeting with the visiting OIC-UNHCR joint delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.
Also read: Bangladesh urges OIC for efforts to send Rohingya back home in Myanmar
At the meeting, the foreign secretary urged the OIC-UNHCR joint delegation to mobilize robust international support for ensuring sustainable solution to this tragic crisis and continue humanitarian assistance till repatriation is materialized.
The OIC delegation, headed by the Assistant-Secretary General for Humanitarian, Cultural and Social Affairs, Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet, the UNHRC delegation, headed by Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR’s Representative for the GCC Countries and other development partners are visiting Bangladesh from August 6 to 11 to take stock of the situation of Rohingyas.
The foreign secretary stated that under the prudent leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the government of Bangladesh has provided shelter and protection to the forcibly displaced Rohingyas from their ancestral homeland, Myanmar.
Also read: Resettlement Programme: US efforts underway to take most vulnerable Rohingyas
He reiterated Bangladesh’s intention towards meaningful engagement of the UN, regional bodies and other friendly nations in materialising the return of the Rohingyas to their homeland and ensuring their rights to return. He also appreciated the humanitarian assistance received from the international community.
Masud appreciated the visit of the OIC-UNHCR delegation to the Rohingya Camps in Ukhiya and Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar and hoped that the delegation had firsthand idea of the crisis as well as witnessed the efforts taken by the government of Bangladesh with the support of the international community to alleviate the sufferings of the Rohingyas through different programmes.
He also apprised the delegation of the Bhasan Char project which is implemented by the Bangladesh government spending US$ 350 million of its own resources.
Also read: Many global actors don't want Rohingya be repatriated at this moment: Momen
Recalling the OIC Secretary-General’s recent visit to Bangladesh, the foreign secretary commended the OIC Secretary-General for his firm support for the ICJ case filed by The Gambia, and sincere efforts to maintain the focus of the Rohingya issue in different forums of the OIC.
Raising concern over the insufficient funding for the ICJ case filed by The Gambia, as well as declining assistance for the humanitarian operation for the FDMNs, Masud urged the OIC as well as the Gulf countries to increase their assistance for Rohingyas.
During the call on, the OIC Assistant Secretary-General praised the Government and people of Bangladesh for providing shelter, protection and necessary assistance to the Rohingyas.
He renewed OIC’s commitment to remain constructively engaged on the issue of Rohingya. “Repatriation is the final solution to this crisis”, he added.
The Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and UNHCR’s Representative for the GCC Countries suggested to diversify funding sources.
Prior to the call, the OIC-UNHCR delegation met with the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh on 10 August 2023 at the Prime Minister’s Office.
During the meeting, the principal secretary highlighted to the visiting delegation the relocation of the Rohingyas from Cox’s Bazar to Bhashan Char and sought more contribution to the Joint Response Plan (JRP).
He requested the visiting delegation to jointly organise dedicated programmes for the Rohingyas and called for enhanced diplomatic efforts to keep the issue alive on the global agenda.
The OIC-UNHCR delegation also includes OIC Special Envoy to Myanmar Ambassador Ibrahim Ahdy Khairat, representatives from the Islamic Solidarity Fund (ISF), Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), Kuwait’s Zakat House and Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED).
US envoy meets Palak
US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas on Thursday met with State Minister for Information and Communications Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak.
They discussed the areas for bilateral cooperation in the technology sector to strengthen Bangladesh-US relations.
Read: Identify overseas points from where anti-Bangladesh propaganda are being spread: Experts tell foreign minister
The Ambassador emphasised the importance of technology in promoting democracy, said the Embassy.
Identify overseas points from where anti-Bangladesh propaganda are being spread: Experts tell foreign minister
Experts at a discussion on Thursday laid emphasis on pragmatic and effective steps to counter anti-Bangladesh campaign and efforts to undermine the country’s achievements.
They laid emphasis on identifying the points from where disinformation and anti-Bangladesh propaganda are being spread and address it with proper counter efforts based on facts.
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen hosted the views exchange programme at the Foreign Service Academy that lasted for over two hours.
"In three places you need to give attention: London, Brussels and Washington DC. There is scope to work there," said former chairman of National Human Rights Commission Prof Dr Mizanur Rahman, drawing the foreign minister’s attention.
Read: “People’s welfare, country’s betterment priority”
He said it would be too late if steps are not taken urgently as he indicated that things are being generated and drafts are being made from these places.
Apparently referring to BNP-Jamaat's “investment for anti-Bangladesh propaganda,” Prof Mizan said it is more important to know whether those elements are countered properly instead of looking into who is paying money for those acts.
What is happening from “London against Bangladesh and involvement of David Bergman in drafting disinformation-driven documents” also came up for discussion.
"Are we doing enough to counter those conspiracies?" — Prof Mizan questioned, adding, "you need to send people from the civil society there."
Read: Foreigners find advantages when country is weak; they want unrest: Momen
Dhaka University's International Relations Department Prof Dr Delwar Hossain said those who are trying to keep Bangladesh under pressure also once appreciated it as a model for economic development and democratic strength.
"It is part of their diplomacy… Bangladesh is being undermined and many tiny issues are seen in a big way," he said.
Prof Delwar said this reality is time specific. After this particular period those powers will change their tone and attitude.
Shamsher M Chowdhury Bir Bikram ruled out the “propaganda regarding UN intervention in Bangladesh election,” noting that the UN cannot take any decision alone.
Prof Shahab Enam Khan said the Bangladesh Embassy in the US is extraordinarily engaged and they are doing tremendous work.
Read: Botswana seeks better trade relations with Bangladesh
Sharing his experience of spending the last year in the US, he said Bangladesh Ambassador Muhammad Imran is extremely effective and he is reaching out to the US side regularly. "We must recognise that."
Prof Shahab said Bangladesh must diversify its market and labour mobility, for which Africa can be a good destination.
"We have a robust human capacity to work in hostile environments, as seen in the case of UN peacekeeping missions in Africa or our people working in desert areas, that would enable us to create new markets in African countries," he said.
The government, private sector, and former military officers who served in Africa can come together to explore new opportunities, he said.
"I must stress that Bangladesh enjoys unfathomable support from the African population. Hence, the ministry of foreign affairs can host an African level summit in Bangladesh," he added.
The foreign affairs experts laid emphasis on having constructive engagement continuously with follow-up measures.
Read: ASEAN’s collective market holds significant promise for Bangladesh’s economic growth: Momen
Constructive role of the media also came up for discussion and the importance of fact-based objective journalism was highlighted.
One of the discussants mentioned a “BNP-deployed political individual” at the US State Department who keeps poking on various issues routinely.
Some of the discussants raised the “false information contained in the recent letter of the US Congressmen” and other such letters against Bangladesh and its minorities — Hindus and Christians.
The discussants came up with various suggestions that need to be implemented ahead of the next national election.
The issue of inviting experienced election observers was also discussed.
"We had a quality discussion. We mainly listened to them and noted their suggestions. We are thankful to them," said Foreign Minister Momen.
“It is nothing new. We hold such dialogue regularly,” he said after the lengthy meeting with the experts that lasted for over two hours.
Former diplomats Farooq Sobhan, Tariq A Karim, Waliur Rahman, Abdul Hannan, Brigadier General (Retd) M Sakhawat Hossain, Maj Gen (Retd) Abdur Rashid, Prof Abdul Mannan, former Supreme Court Justice AHM Shamsuddin Choudhury Manik, Prof Dr Lailufar Yasmin, DrRashid Askari, Prof Dr Mamun-Al-Mahtab (Shwapnil), Dr Miltan Biswas, journalists Monjurul Ahsan Bulbul, Nayeemul Islam Khan, Swadesh Roy, Rahul Raha and senior foreign ministry officials, among others, were present.
“People’s welfare, country’s betterment priority”
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Thursday reiterated that people's right to food and shelter and their welfare remain the number one priority of the government, not luxury.
“Our number one priority is to ensure people’s welfare and betterment of the country. Right to food and right to shelter – these are our priority human rights. Food security is our priority. I do not think we sign any agreement where luxury is involved,” he said.
The Foreign Minister made the remarks as a journalist wanted to know about the government's position regarding the 'General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA)' and the 'Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA)'.
These two are "essential" to enabling a closer defence relationship, expanding opportunities for defence trade, information sharing, and military-to-military cooperation between Bangladesh and the USA.
Foreigners find advantages when country is weak; they want unrest: Momen
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Wednesday said foreigners do not want Bangladesh to do well, rather they want unrest.
"Foreigners don't want your welfare. They want unrest here. If the country becomes weak, foreigners find advantages. So, they want the country to be weakened,” he said.
Momen, while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar on the recent development trajectory of Bangladesh, said development of the country will be carried out by the people and the government.
Also read: ASEAN’s collective market holds significant promise for Bangladesh’s economic growth: Momen
Bangladesh Study Trust hosted the seminar at the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka.
He advised all not to fall for foreign “bhelki” [tricks].
Momen said there will be elections in 22 countries before Bangladesh’s national polls, but the latter is currently the most talked about issue at the US State Department.
"This is sad. One of the reasons could be that our position is now much better,” Momen said.
He said the government led by Awami League has made significant economic progress over the last 14 years.
Also read: PM Hasina’s dynamic leadership ensured regional stability: Momen tells Indian business delegation
“In our country, I would say the economy should be the main focus of discussion ahead of the election. So, highlight the economic issues. These are the issues of the future. I would draw your attention to maintaining economic growth. The rest are irrelevant,” he said.
He suggested that the socio-economic situation of the 2001-2006 period be discussed and a comparative picture with that of the last 14 years be presented.
Momen said Bangladesh Awami League has the confidence of the people.
Also read: Bangladesh should be rewarded with facilities for graduation: Momen
For the development and welfare of the country, there is the government to take care of the people, he said.
“The importance given to foreigners should be minimal,” Momen said.
Botswana seeks better trade relations with Bangladesh
High Commissioner of Botswana Gilbert Shimane Mangole, based in New Delhi met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam on Wednesday when the envoy showed interest to boost trade relations with Bangladesh.
The High Commissioner lauded the growth and development of Bangladesh in the last one and half decade.
Also read: Bangladesh, Botswana agree to share knowledge, expertise in agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture
The High Commissioner said Botswana is keen to strengthen the trade relation with Bangladesh and proposed a possible visit by the Botswana Trade Minister in the near future, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Both the State Minister and the High Commissioner agreed that frequent high level visits would further consolidate political and economic ties.
Both of them agreed to explore the untapped potentials and enhance the collaboration in the agricultural sector.
Also read: Bangladesh, Botswana sign agreement on visa exemption, MoU on political consultations
‘I thought everyone forgot about me; grateful to NSI and PM for bringing me home alive’
Bangladeshi UN official Lt Col (retd) Sufiul Anam, who was abducted by Al-Qaeda in Yemen in February 2022, returned to Dhaka today after being rescued by the National Security Intelligence (NSI).
An Emirates flight, carrying Sufiul Anam, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka around 6 pm.
Sufiul gave a harrowing account of his captivity to journalists at a press conference following his arrival. He thanked the prime minister for taking the initiative to rescue him and bringing him back home.
Also read: Abducted Bangladeshi UN official rescued from Al Qaeda in Yemen; thanks PM, govt
“The NSI officers rescued me under the direct instruction of none other than Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,” Sufiul said.
He expressed his gratitude to National Security Intelligence (NSI) officials at the press conference.
"I thought everyone had forgotten about me. But when I met the NSI members, I was assured that I have not been forgotten,” the UN official said.
“I did not think that I would be able to return home alive after being abducted by terrorists. Over the last 18 months, I was in a very dangerous environment. I thought the terrorists would kill me at any moment,” the UN official said.
Innovation, collaboration, financial support from private sector essential to support government in achieving SDGs: UN
UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis has emphasised the important role of the private sector in bringing inclusive sustainable development changes in the country
"Innovation, collaboration and financial support from the private sector is essential to support the government in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Bangladesh by 2030," she said.
At the first formal meeting, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh warmly welcomed the establishment of the Bangladesh Private Sector Working Committee (BPSWC) and its subcommittees.
Also read: Spending time with children during Iftar a reminder they need empathy and support: UN Resident Coordinator
Aimed to catalyse the implementation of the country's sustainable development goals (SDGs), the newly established BPSWC thematic groups will be working closely with the Government of Bangladesh, the UN, and national and international development organisations.
The formal nominations of the groups’ memberships were adopted at the first working meeting of the committee, also held on August 9.
Some fifty heads of Bangladeshi private companies and development organisations, as well as representatives of different UN agencies attended the event.
The event was opened by the President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industries (FBCCI) and the Chairman of BPSWC, Md. Jashim Uddin, the President of Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF), Ardashir Kabir, who welcomed the establishment of the thematic groups and highlighted the importance of the private sector in inclusive sustainable development.
Also read: Flood responses: UN resident coordinator visits Sylhet to discuss lessons learnt
The UN Resident Coordinator delivered remarks at the meeting, welcoming the initiative and encouraging dynamic and coordinated private sector engagement on achieving the SDGs in Bangladesh.
“I warmly welcome this first full meeting of the Bangladesh Private Sector Working Committee, and its five new Thematic SDG Working Groups, designed to increase private sector engagement and to accelerate efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” said the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, in her opening remarks to the participants of the meeting.
The establishment of the groups is one of the first initiatives of the committee, which was launched in May 2023 by FBCCI, BEF, and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Bangladesh.
The BPSWC was established to support the country’s private sector to work together with the Government of Bangladesh, the UN, as well as national and international development organisations, for the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Also read: Lack of access, remoteness of many communities still challenge in CHT: UN Resident Coordinator
This committee is expected to focus on issues including job creation, youth employment and the fostering of a decent work environment, crucial challenges which need to be addressed in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Also attending from the UN in Bangladesh, representing the UN’s 2022-26 UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) five Strategic Priority inter-agency Results Groups: Gitanjali Singh, Resident Representative, UN Women Bangladesh, Tuomo Poutiainen, ILO Country Director Bangladesh, Van Nguyen, Deputy Resident Representative and Resident Representative ai, UNDP in Bangladesh, Emma Brigham, Deputy Representative and Country Representative ai, UNICEF Bangladesh, Nur Khondaker, Assistant FAO Representative for Programme and FAO Representative ai, FAO Bangladesh and Dr Vibhavendra S Raghuvanshi, Chief of Health, UNFPA Banglades.
‘Your letter demanding UN intervention in Bangladesh election makes it seem like you are playing in the hands of terrorists’
A group of human rights and professional organizations in a statement to 14 members of the US Congress urged to change the current course of action to ensure a violence-free, secular and democratic future for Bangladesh.
The statement regarding the US policies on Bangladesh was sent to congress members Bob Good, Scott Perry, Anna Paulina-Luna, Josh Brecheen, Ralph Norman, Andrew Clyde, Eli Crane, Cory Mills, Paul A Gosar, Doug LaMalfa, Ronny L Jackson, Randy Weber, Brian Babin and Glenn Grothman.
"Your letter demanding UN intervention in Bangladesh's election makes it seem like you are playing in the hands of Islamists and terrorists," the statement dated August 7 reads.
Also read: Dangling threat of visa sanctions in Bangladesh’s case, US silent on undeclared martial law situation in Pakistan: Geostrategist Chellaney
“The last UN intervention, based on blackmailing Bangladesh's contribution to the UN peacekeeping mission, brought a military-led government that did not solve what they are expecting to happen now,” according to the statement.
The signatory Bangladeshi-American human rights, social, professional organizations, and elected officials strongly support a violence-free, secular, and democratic Bangladesh.
"We echo your concern. But, dear Congressmen, please do your homework and kindly be informed about the people demanding free and fair elections before you abruptly interfere in the domestic affairs of a foreign country," the statement reads.
Also read: Sanctions, freezing assets, giving partner nations intel can be tools to fight corruption: US State Dept
"You must have known that an American, Avijit Roy, was murdered by Ansar al Islam terrorists in 2015. Ansar al Islam is an Al Qaeda affiliate with covert operations in Bangladesh," the statement further says.
The signatories said Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami, who have been demanding free and fair elections in Bangladesh, “also have been overtly and covertly in cahoots with terrorist groups like Ansar al Islam since 2001. The groups aim to use the democratic process as an excuse to capture political power like the Muslim Brotherhood did in Egypt in 2012."
Why are they writing this letter ?
The signatories wrote: “First, as US citizens, we are concerned about the repeated failure of US foreign policy to install democracy without considering the historical and socio-political dimensions in Muslim countries and regions. The vivid examples of American foreign policy failure are Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Libya. We don't want that to happen in Bangladesh. Second, those of us advocating and fighting for a secular, violence-free, and democratic Bangladesh over the last few decades feel that our lives, like that of Avijit's, are at stake if the coalition led by BNP-Jamaat somehow takes over the political power of Bangladesh under democratic pretext. Please also note that losing Bangladesh at the hands of any form of Islamic alliance would also be a double blow to US national security interest in South Asia.
Also read: US encourages Bangladesh govt to enable stakeholders to review the draft Cyber Security Act
“Now going back to the past and tracking the activities of the so-called freedom warriors, you will see how the Islamists led by the BNP-Jamaat coalition almost ravaged Bangladesh during 2001-2006 and are still trying to destabilize South Asia. Bangladesh held four widely praised and well-participated elections in 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2008. But the massive terrorist incidents patronized by the BNP-Jamaat coalition between two free elections in 2001 and 2008 indicate that just having a free (and so-called fair) election in 2024 will not change the current political deadlock unless the stakeholders find a sustainable solution guaranteeing the security, safety, and post-election political participation of the minorities and political dissidents.”
“Right after the October 2001 election victory, the BNP-Jamaat led coalition unleashed an unprecedented attack against the minority Hindus and the Awami League supporters across 11 western districts of Bangladesh,” they wrote.
Also read: US Congressnen's latest letter on Bangladesh draws flakes
“The Hindus and opposition activists were targeted because they overwhelmingly voted for the Bangladesh Awami League. The violence led to massive looting and burning of Hindu houses, rape of Hindu women, and eviction of Hindus from their homes. State-patronized violence continued during the entire 2001-2006 under BNP-Jamaat rule,” the statement said.
What are their concerns?
“First, two convicts currently lead the largest opposition party, BNP. The former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is the chairperson, and Tarique Rahman, the interim chair. What type of democracy would be safe if Tarique, convicted of terrorism and other crimes, and other convicts somehow contest a ‘free election’ through the back door and win? Wasn’t Muslim Brotherhood led by Mohammed Morsi allowed to participate in a free election in Egypt in good faith in 2012?” — the signatories asks.
“Second, even after being out of political office for so long, the BNP-Jamaat coalition has not abandoned its violent ways. Most recently, on July 25-29, 2023, after being allowed to hold political rallies, the BNP-led mobs again resorted to massive destruction, burning public transport and attacking businesses. On February 28, 2013, after the War Crimes Tribunal had convicted Jamaat-e-Islami leader Delwar Hossain Sayedee, Jamaat-Shibir cadres unleashed an unprecedented year-long countrywide violence costing hundreds of lives.
Also read: Around 200 prominent Bangladeshi Americans say 6 US congressmen’s letter ignores BNP-Jamaat persecution of Hindus in 2001
“The Jamaat-led violence cost the lives of the largest number of law enforcement officers in the country’s history. Then again, during February-March of 2015, BNP-Jamaat unleashed a massive terrorist campaign to destabilize the government by throwing petrol bombs at civilian targets,” the statement says.
"We desire strong ties between the two nations for mutual economic interests and national security interests of the United States. Therefore, we urge that you please cautiously make your statement and engage all stakeholders to ensure a violent-free, secular, democratic Bangladesh,” it adds.
The signatories are:
1. Elected Bangladeshi-American officials: Councilman Dr. Nuran Nabi, NJ; Mayor Mahabubul Alam Tayub, PA; State Representative Abul Khan, NH; Councilman Abu Ahmed Musa, MI and Councilman Nurul Hasan, PA.
2. Shompriti Forum, Prof. ABM Nasir, NC.
3. USA Bangabandhu Parishad, Engineer Rana Hasan Mahmud, CA and Engineer Shikrity Barua, NY.
4. Bangladesh Liberation War Veterans 1971, USA Inc. Golam Mostafa Khan Miraz, NY.
5. California Bangabandhu Parishad, Nazrul Alam and Engineer Tasnim Salam Aslam, CA.
6. Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee, USA, Fahim Reza Noor, NY.
7. Michigan Bangabandhu Parishad, Engr. Ahad Ahmed, MI and Ali Ahmed Farish, MI.
USA Committee for Democratic and Secular Bangladesh, Zakaria Choudhury, NY.
9. NRB Council USA, Engineer Jalil Khan, CA.
10. Georgia Bangabandhu Parishad, Rumi Kabir and Mahabubur Rahman Bhuiyan, GA.
11. Bangladesh Freedom Fighters Solidarity Council, USA, Khurshid Anwar Bablu.
12. Greater Washington DC Bangabandhu Parishad, Nasrin Munna.
13. Muktijoddha Sangsad, Dr. Abdul Baten.
14. Massachusetts Bangabandhu Parishad, Sofeda Basu, MA.
15. Morshed Alam, Democratic leader, NY.
16. Bangladesh Muktijodha Sangsad, California Command Council, Zahedul Mahmud Zami, CA.
17. Pennsylvania Bangabandhu Parishad, Abu Taher Bir Partik, Kazi Shamim, PA.
18. Group of Academics: Prof. Ziauddin Ahmed, PA; Prof. Mizan R Miah, IL; Prof. Jamil Talukdar, WI; Prof. Shahadat Hossain, NY.
19. South New Jersey Bangabandhu Parishad, Nurannabi Choudhury, NJ.
20. Bangabandhu Cultural Organization, Tawfik Soleman Tuhin, Zamiul Belal, CA.
Bangabandhu’s vision, ideals will continue to inspire Dhaka-Delhi strong bonds of friendship: Pranay Verma
Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma visited Tungipara on Wednesday and paid his warm tributes to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
He laid a wreath at the mausoleum of Bangabandhu, honouring his enduring legacy and his historic contributions in shaping the history and progress of Bangladesh as an independent, modern nation.
During his visit to the mausoleum, High Commissioner Verma expressed his confidence that the vision and ideals of Bangabandhu will continue to guide and inspire the strong bonds of friendship between India and Bangladesh and their peoples for generations to come.
Yoga a gift of India to world: Pranay Verma
In honouring the legacy of Bangabandhu, the two countries are also reminded of their shared sacrifices in the Liberation War of 1971 that continues to provide the foundation for their special relationship, he said.
Dhaka, Delhi cooperation in science, technology an important dimension of development partnership: Pranay Verma
During this visit, the High Commissioner also visited Orakandi and interacted with the members of the Matua community and offered prayers at the holy shrine in Shridham Orakandi.
He highlighted that people-to-people contacts are at the heart of Bangladesh-India relationship and reiterated India's commitment to bolstering cultural exchanges and development partnership between the two countries.
Multimodal connectivity to shape future links between Bangladesh, India: Pranay Verma