Dhaka:Bangladesh is hopeful of renewing the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with India before its expiry this year. The government is preparing to negotiate based on the country's legitimate water requirements and long-term national interests.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam, expressed optimism about renewing the treaty, which is set to expire this year. She indicated that Bangladesh hopes India will make a favorable decision in this regard.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has already established a committee to negotiate with India over the future of the water-sharing arrangement, which is due to expire in December. The Water Resources Minister and the government's Finance Adviser are leading the process, with assistance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Shama stated that discussions with India are already occurring at various working levels, and formal negotiations will be held to address outstanding issues. She expressed hope that these negotiations would yield positive results and ensure continued cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
When questioned about Bangladesh's stance on a straightforward renewal of the existing treaty or a new agreement with revised provisions, she mentioned that the government's negotiating position would be determined through the committee's deliberations. Emphasizing Bangladesh's legitimate demands, she noted that decisions would focus on serving the country's future interests and resolving water issues. The existing 30-year Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, signed between Bangladesh and India in 1996, is approaching its expiry in December 2026.