Dhaka: Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir has emphasized that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to India will be contingent upon the creation of an appropriate environment based on mutual trust, confidence, respect for sovereignty, diplomatic dialogue, and a dignified invitation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kobir stressed in an interview that there is no need to hasten a high-level visit that compromises national interests. Despite Indian media speculation about the potential visit ahead of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, Bangladesh has decided against rushing into such engagements without clearly defined national interests.
Kobir, who also serves as the Joint Secretary General of BNP's International Affairs Committee, elaborated on various aspects of Bangladesh-India relations, including emerging international alignments, strategic relations with the United States and China, the reopening of Malaysia's labor market, and progress on the government's key foreign policy priorities.
Addressing media reports about the Prime Minister's visit, Kobir dismissed them as speculation, labeling reports about Tarique Rahman's visit to India as 'baseless and assumption-driven'. The future of bilateral relations and any top-level visit by Bangladesh's head of government will depend on a shift in India's leadership approach and mindset.
Kobir expressed deep concerns over India's allowance of political activities or media exposure for convicted and fugitive individuals on its territory, which he described as contrary to India's democratic etiquette. This stance, he asserted, has angered millions of Bangladeshis and prompted diplomatic protests by the government.
In terms of regional alliances, Kobir highlighted Bangladesh's 'Bangladesh First' policy, emphasizing a balanced foreign policy with national interests at its core. He mentioned potential economic or defense partnerships involving Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Trkiye, and noted the possibility of an imminent visit to Riyadh by Prime Minister Rahman.
On the economic front, Bangladesh is strengthening commercial ties with the United States and the European Union, as well as enhancing strategic relations with China. Kobir revealed ongoing discussions on increasing bilateral trade and attracting foreign direct investment.
Furthermore, Kobir highlighted Bangladesh's strong international confidence, as evidenced by the support from 52 of Africa's 54 countries in a recent UN election. Plans are underway to explore new African markets and resolve issues related to the Malaysian labor market.
Lastly, Kobir described Bangladesh's victory in the UNGA election as recognition of Prime Minister Rahman's international leadership and the country's progressive democratic image. He also outlined the government's commitment to addressing the Rohingya crisis through diplomatic efforts and international partnerships.