India seeks to maintain cordial relations with Bangladesh in line with its broader approach to regional diplomacy, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated.
“India always wishes to uphold good relations with its neighbours, and Bangladesh is no exception. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee often remarked that while friends can be changed, neighbours cannot. Therefore, we are committed to preserving strong ties with Bangladesh,” Singh said in an exclusive interview with IANS on Saturday (8 March).
Addressing a media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal affirmed India’s support for a “stable, peaceful, inclusive, and progressive” Bangladesh.
He emphasised that all political issues should be resolved through democratic means, advocating for “inclusive and participatory” elections.
Jaiswal also voiced concerns over the “deteriorating law and order situation” in Bangladesh, noting that the release of violent extremists convicted of serious crimes has further exacerbated tensions.
Meanwhile, officials from Bangladesh and India convened in Kolkata for the 86th meeting of the Joint River Commission, where discussions focused on the renewal of the 30-year-old Ganges Water Treaty, set to expire next year.
Both sides deliberated on technical aspects of the treaty, including water flow measurements and other matters of mutual interest.
Commenting on reports of violence against minorities, including Hindu communities in Bangladesh, Jaiswal underscored India's expectation that Bangladesh will conduct thorough investigations and bring the perpetrators of killings, arson, and communal violence to justice without any bias.
Amid ongoing diplomatic deliberations, Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser expressed optimism for the swift resolution of visa-related issues between the two nations.
