Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.
Reaffirming India’s steadfast support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, Modi underscored New Delhi’s people-centric approach to bilateral ties, said a press release by India's Ministry of External Affairs on Friday (4 April).
Cooperation between the two nations has delivered tangible benefits to citizens on both sides of the border, it added.
Modi emphasised India’s desire for a positive and constructive relationship grounded in pragmatism.
Cautioning against inflammatory rhetoric, the Indian premier called for restraint in public discourse that could vitiate the atmosphere.
On border security, he stressed the importance of strict law enforcement and curbing illegal crossings—particularly nocturnal movements—to ensure stability.
Modi suggested that the bilateral mechanism between the two countries should convene as necessary to review ties and advance cooperation.
Expressing concern over the safety of minority communities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, Modi urged Dhaka to ensure their protection and to thoroughly investigate reports of atrocities committed against them.
The Indian PM also congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC, expressing confidence in Dhaka’s ability to further regional cooperation under its stewardship.
Both leaders agreed to deepen consultations and collaboration to promote regional integration within the BIMSTEC framework.
Modi concluded with a firm belief that all outstanding issues between the two neighbours would continue to be addressed through constructive bilateral dialogue, in the spirit of their longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership.