NEW DELHI, June 22: India and Bangladesh have outlined a forward-looking vision to enhance cooperation in various new sectors and signed several agreements, including those aimed at strengthening ties in the maritime sphere and blue economy. These agreements were finalized during comprehensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, who is on a two-day state visit to India.
Among the key pacts signed were agreements to foster strong ties in the digital domain and establish a “green partnership.” Additionally, the two nations agreed to enhance railway connectivity, which is expected to bolster trade and mobility between the countries.
Prime Minister Modi, in his statement to the media, highlighted the innovative nature of the new agreements. “Today we have prepared a futuristic vision for cooperation in new areas. The youth of both countries will benefit from the consensus reached on cooperation in areas such as green partnership, digital partnership, blue economy, and space,” he said.
Sheikh Hasina emphasized the importance of the relationship between the two countries, referring to India as Bangladesh’s major neighbor and trusted friend. “India is our major neighbor, trusted friend, and regional partner. Bangladesh greatly values our relations with India, which were born out of the War of Liberation in 1971,” Hasina stated.
She expressed her gratitude towards India for its support during Bangladesh’s independence and paid homage to the “brave fallen heroes of India” who sacrificed their lives in the 1971 war.
The discussions between the leaders were described as very productive, covering a range of topics including security, trade, connectivity, water sharing from common rivers, power and energy, and regional and multilateral cooperation. “We agreed to collaborate with each other for the betterment of our people and countries,” Hasina added.
This visit marks the first incoming bilateral state visit by a foreign leader since the formation of the new government in India following the Lok Sabha elections. Hasina’s visit began with a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.
Officials indicated that the Modi-Hasina talks were aimed at imparting new momentum to bilateral ties, especially in the areas of trade, connectivity, and energy. Hasina’s participation in the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi and the Union council of ministers on June 9 was noted as a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the two nations.
