Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Force (BSF) have agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation to maintain peace, stability, and security along the Bangladesh-India border.
The consensus was reached during the 57th director general-level border conference between the two border forces, held in New Delhi from 8-11 June.
A joint press statement was issued following the conclusion of the four-day meeting.
The Bangladesh delegation was led by BGB Director General Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, while the Indian delegation was headed by BSF Director General Praveen Kumar.
According to the joint statement, the conference was conducted in a cordial, positive, and forward-looking atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding cooperation and mutual trust between the two border guarding forces.
As the highest-level bilateral mechanism between BGB and BSF, the conference served as an important platform to review the prevailing border situation and discuss issues of mutual concern related to border security and management.
The discussions focused on combating cross-border crimes, including the smuggling of narcotics, arms, counterfeit currency, gold, and other prohibited goods, as well as preventing illegal border crossings and human trafficking.
The two sides also addressed issues related to border fatalities, illegal, inadvertent, or forced crossings, border infrastructure development, implementation of the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP), confidence-building measures, and the need for closer cooperation in tackling emerging security challenges along the border.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability along the Bangladesh-India border. They agreed to enhance coordinated patrols, increase vigilance, improve real-time information sharing, and strengthen joint efforts against cross-border criminal networks.
The conference also emphasised raising awareness among border residents about international border laws and regulations and promoting public awareness to prevent illegal activities in border areas.
BGB and BSF reiterated their joint commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against cross-border crimes, insurgent activities, and any actions that threaten border security.
Expressing satisfaction with the outcomes of the conference, both sides pledged to further strengthen cooperation, mutual trust, and professional engagement to ensure a secure and peaceful border.
The conference concluded on 11 June with the signing of a joint record of discussions. Both delegations expressed hope that the decisions and understandings reached during the meeting would enhance bilateral cooperation, improve border management, and contribute to stronger friendly relations between Bangladesh and India.
The next director general-level conference has been proposed to be held in Dhaka in November 2026 at a mutually convenient time.
FP/MI