Dhaka: Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi emphasized the importance of progressing in the India-Bangladesh relationship by acknowledging the challenges faced by both nations. He underscored that remaining fixated on past issues could hinder development and people-to-people ties.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Trivedi spoke to reporters after a meeting with Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan. Emphasizing mutual respect, Trivedi stated, “We have to appreciate Bangladesh’s democratic challenges, and Bangladesh also has to appreciate India’s challenges. As neighbours, we are equal. Nobody is big, nobody is small.”
The High Commissioner reiterated the necessity of not being anchored in historical grievances, as doing so could stall developmental efforts. He also extended his congratulations on the 48th Founding Day of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), highlighting its significance.
Discussions between Trivedi and Bangladeshi officials concentrated on enhancing people-to-people connections and fortifying local government frameworks, which are priorities for both democracies. When asked about Bangladesh-India relations, particularly concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Trivedi refrained from commenting on internal politics, stressing that such matters are for the country’s citizens and government to decide.
Trivedi expressed a desire to bolster bilateral ties, stating that decisions should positively impact ordinary citizens. He highlighted the shared border as a point of increased responsibility and discussed promoting trade and free trade to benefit both nations.
Local Government State Minister Mir Shahe Alam mentioned that Trivedi’s visit was primarily to congratulate Minister Abdul Moin Khan on the BNP’s founding anniversary. The meeting, while largely ceremonial, also covered ministry-related topics. Alam noted that Trivedi shared insights from his experience with local government elections in India, which could be beneficial as Bangladesh plans its local elections.
The Indian envoy’s visit and discussions underscore the ongoing efforts to strengthen the multifaceted relationship between India and Bangladesh, focusing on cooperation, development, and mutual understanding.