Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain has asserted that diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and India should not be contingent on any particular government, emphasising the need for a broader, enduring framework for bilateral ties.
In an interview with The Hindu, published on Tuesday (18 February), Touhid Hossain addressed various facets of the Bangladesh-India relationship, underscoring the importance of continuity in diplomacy irrespective of political transitions.
Earlier, during the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Oman, Hossain met with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
Their discussions highlighted the necessity of collaborative efforts to tackle emerging challenges between the two nations.
He further indicated that Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi might hold discussions on the sidelines of the upcoming BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok this April.
Reflecting on the current dynamics of Bangladesh-India ties, Touhid Hossain remarked, “India had been accustomed to a particular diplomatic structure for 15 years, which has now undergone a sudden transformation. T
his has understandably caused some unease, but such adjustments should stabilise within six months.”
Hinting at a revival in bilateral trade, he noted, “There was a temporary downturn, but trade has begun to recover. The people of both nations remain keen on maintaining connectivity, which will play a constructive role in safeguarding mutual interests.”
Addressing India’s concerns regarding the security of non-Muslim communities in Bangladesh, Touhid Hossain reaffirmed, “Hindus and other religious minorities are equal citizens of Bangladesh. Ensuring their safety is a fundamental duty of the state, and the government is fulfilling this responsibility.”
Expressing grave concern over border killings by India’s Border Security Force (BSF), he revealed, “Since 2024, 24 Bangladeshis have been killed along the border, half of whom lost their lives during the previous administration’s tenure. While border-related crimes exist worldwide, extrajudicial killings in this manner are unacceptable. Offenders should be apprehended and brought to justice, not shot dead.”
On India’s stance regarding ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, the adviser clarified that she is facing legal proceedings in Bangladesh.
“Our government has officially requested her repatriation to face trial. Should India decline to return her, it would be reasonable to impose restrictions on her political activities to prevent the dissemination of misinformation that could incite unrest.”
Regarding the power agreement with Adani, Touhid Hossain stated, “The terms of the contract can be reassessed. If both parties agree, a rational re-evaluation is feasible.”
Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar echoed similar sentiments, asserting that Bangladesh-India relations should not be dictated by any single government.
“Even during the BNP administration (1996-2001), bilateral trade saw rapid growth. The Ganges Water Treaty was signed in 1996. Our relations should be guided by mutual interest and respect, rather than political affiliations,” he remarked.
Adviser Touhid Hossain’s remarks underscore the imperative of fostering a sustainable and independent diplomatic relationship between Bangladesh and India, detached from transient political landscapes.
As both nations navigate evolving geopolitical realities, the emphasis remains on mutual cooperation, economic resilience, and ensuring stability in the region.
