Rangpur: Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain today announced that the Indian government is currently examining the matter of extraditing Sheikh Hasina. "We have repeatedly asked India to extradite Sheikh Hasina. How they view the issue within their procedures is their internal affairs. But we remain firm from our position," he stated to journalists at the Circuit House in Rangpur upon his arrival for a four-day visit.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the foreign adviser clarified that he had no information regarding the return of BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman. He also highlighted that a hospital, to be constructed in Nilphamari with assistance from China, will serve the entire Rangpur region.
Touhid Hossain emphasized that although the interim government does not have much time left, they will continue to work for the development of the Rangpur region as long as they remain in office. He assured that issues including employment will be given serious consideration.
The adviser mentioned that elections would be held in February, after which responsibilities will be transitioned. He outlined several plans aimed at advancing the relatively underdeveloped Rangpur region and expressed hope that the incoming elected government will implement these plans.
Highlighting the regional disparities, Touhid noted, "The northern region lags behind compared to other parts of the country. The entire cabinet is working with that in mind. We remain alert to ensuring that development disparities are reduced quickly." He further added, "We are here for a short period. The plans we are laying out will be implemented in a continuous manner by the elected government."
During his visit, the Foreign Affairs Adviser is scheduled to inspect several important locations in Rangpur and Nilphamari.