Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina for her ceremonial reception. (ANI)
New Delhi, 22 June 2024 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh held bilateral talks in New Delhi on Saturday, focusing on enhancing defence ties, counter-terrorism cooperation, border management, and other strategic areas.
Strengthening Defence and Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
During the joint press conference, PM Modi highlighted the comprehensive discussions on defence production and the modernisation of armed forces. "We have decided to strengthen our cooperation over counter-terrorism, fundamentalism, and peaceful management of the border. Our vision for the Indian Ocean Region is the same. We welcome Bangladesh's decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative," said PM Modi.
Emphasis on Regional Policies
PM Modi underscored the significance of Bangladesh in India's strategic frameworks, including the Neighbourhood First Policy, Act East Policy, Vision Sagar, and the Indo-Pacific Vision. He reiterated the commitment to collaborative efforts at regional forums such as BIMSTEC.
Achievements in Bilateral Projects
Highlighting the successful completion of several key projects, PM Modi mentioned the initiation of trade in Indian rupees between the two nations, the world's longest river cruise on the Ganga, and the completion of the first cross-border friendship pipeline. Additionally, he praised the sub-regional cooperation in the energy sector, citing the export of electricity from Nepal to Bangladesh through the Indian grid.
"Implementing such significant initiatives in so many areas in just one year reflects the speed and scale of our relations," PM Modi noted.
Focus on Connectivity and Economic Ties
The leaders emphasised the importance of connectivity, commerce, and collaboration to boost their economies. PM Modi announced plans to enhance digital and energy connectivity and initiate talks on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). He also discussed cooperative efforts on flood management, early warning systems, and drinking water projects, particularly through the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty and the conservation and management of the Teesta River.
Futuristic Vision for India-Bangladesh Relations
PM Modi outlined a futuristic vision for the two countries, including green partnership, digital partnership, blue economy, and space collaboration. He highlighted the frequent high-level engagements, noting, "We have met 10 times in the last one year. However, this meeting is special because Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina is the first state guest after the third term of our government."
Acknowledgement from Bangladesh
PM Sheikh Hasina expressed her appreciation for the strong bilateral relations, calling India a major neighbour and trusted friend. She invited PM Modi to visit Bangladesh to witness their progress and future plans.
"Bangladesh greatly values its relations with India," said PM Hasina.
The bilateral talks and subsequent announcements mark a significant step in the continued strengthening of India-Bangladesh relations, with a clear focus on mutual growth and regional stability.
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