Washington:Ambassador Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey has expressed concerns that providing shelter to Sheikh Hasina and allowing her political activities are hindering the rebuilding of trust in Bangladesh-India relations.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the ambassador, a senior secretary-ranked official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made these remarks during a discussion at the National Press Club in Washington, DC. The event centered around the book "Winds of Change Geopolitics at the Crossroads of South and Southeast Asia" by Asanga Abeyagoonasekera.
Ambassador Mushfiqul emphasized the importance of building lasting friendships with the people of a country, rather than focusing solely on particular leaders or political parties. He highlighted that reconstructing relations with Bangladesh would require India to take more tangible steps and understand the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
Reflecting on Bangladesh's return to democracy, Mushfiqul noted that this transition embodied the people's desire for freedom, dignity, and accountable governance. He mentioned that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership, there was an opportunity to turn these aspirations into reality.
Mushfiqul also spoke positively about China's cooperative approach towards Bangladesh, advocating for the partnership to foster development and create new opportunities. He referred to the recent reception of Chinese President Xi Jinping by US President Donald Trump as a significant gesture of dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing that a similar approach was needed in South Asia.
The ambassador expressed support for expanding friendships with both India and China, provided these relationships are based on equality, mutual respect, and sovereignty. He stressed that Bangladesh must have the autonomy to make decisions in its people's best interests.