Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said that Bangladesh and India are dependent on each other from various aspects including geographical, social, political and economic context. Leaving the past behind, a fresh start is necessary to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries.
He said this when Dinesh Trivedi, the High Commissioner of India appointed to Bangladesh, paid a courtesy call on him in his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday.
During the meeting, fruitful and positive discussions were held on bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India and various issues of mutual interest.
The Home Minister said, “There are differences of opinion or issues between the two countries which can be resolved through mutual cooperation and dialogue. Friendly relations between the two countries should be promoted through dialogue on the basis of equality. But India has to come forward with sincerity in this regard.”
India's High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi expressed his determination to take bilateral relations forward, saying that they not only share geographical boundaries, but also share dreams of prosperity.
Pointing out that it is normal to have challenges on various issues in a democratic culture, he said, “Having issues is the beauty of democracy; without issues, it cannot be a true democracy. However, overcoming all challenges, the people of the two countries have only one main expectation - that is a strong and excellent relationship, which will create a win-win situation for both parties.”
The High Commissioner also said that there is no such critical issue between the two countries that cannot be resolved through negotiation and diplomacy. He expressed hope that the relations between the two countries will be strong and bright in the coming days.
In the meeting, the minister requested the Indian High Commissioner to send back all the identified fugitive criminals in India including Sheikh Hasina as per the existing prisoner exchange and extradition agreement to face them the justice system of Bangladesh. Moreover, the accused in the murder case of Shaheed Osman Hadi were requested to be returned to Bangladesh as soon as possible as per the extradition treaty from India.
The High Commissioner said that a decision will be taken in this regard after legal examination on behalf of India.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs and relevant representatives of the Indian High Commission were present during the meeting.
FP/R
