Dhaka: Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma today emphasized the importance of the economic partnership between India and Bangladesh, highlighting the potential for both nations to act as catalysts for each other’s sustainable growth and to anchor robust regional integration. Speaking at a reception in a city hotel to mark India’s Republic Day, Verma described Bangladesh as a vital partner in this journey.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event featured Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan as the chief guest. Verma emphasized the forward-looking and future-ready nature of the collaboration between Dhaka and Delhi, which he said is rooted in trust, driven by innovation and technology, and nurtured by mutual interests and benefits.
Verma highlighted the special relationship between the two countries, underscored by a shared history of sacrifices during Bangladesh’s Liberation War of 1971. He pointed out the deep cultural bonds that exist, citing the works of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam as connections between their cultures and literatures, along with shared traditions in music, art, dance, theatre, and cinema.
The High Commissioner also spoke about expanding connectivity and economic engagement, noting the significance of a cross-border pipeline transporting high-speed diesel from an Indian refinery to Bangladesh and cross-border power transmission lines that facilitate the flow of electricity from India and Nepal to Bangladesh through the Indian grid. These initiatives, he said, are foundational for regional energy connectivity and integration.
Verma mentioned the mutual benefits derived from supply chains that support Bangladesh’s readymade garment and pharmaceutical sectors, demonstrating the advantages of cooperation and interdependence. He expressed optimism about building regional value chains, shared digital ecosystems, and energy corridors, which would ensure a clean, affordable, and secure energy future while addressing environmental sustainability and climate change.
In his concluding remarks, Verma reaffirmed the value of the long-standing partnership between India and Bangladesh, expressing wishes for peace, prosperity, and success for the people of Bangladesh. He assured that India will continue to support a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh.