South Asia

Bangladesh seeks early conclusion of Teesta deal with India

Published: 14:39, 8 February 2024

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday emphasised the early conclusion of the Teesta water-sharing agreement aiming to strengthen water cooperation between Bangladesh and India.

The issue of border killings was discussed during his bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House on his maiden bilateral trip to India as the foreign minister.
The discussion encompassed the critical issue of border killings, prompting an agreement to enhance collaboration between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Border Security Force (BSF). Both sides committed to utilizing non-lethal weapons to reduce border killings to zero.
In addition to water cooperation, Foreign Minister Mahmud urged his Indian counterpart to alleviate tariff and non-tariff barriers for Bangladesh's exports. He also sought assurances for an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities to Bangladesh, crucial for maintaining price stability, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
During Mahmud's visit, which spans from 6 to 9 February 2024 at the invitation of India's external affairs minister, the two foreign ministers expressed contentment with the robust bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and India. They mutually agreed to further collaboration at sub-regional, regional, and multilateral platforms.
Dr Jaishankar underscored the significance of regional connectivity and power sector cooperation. He lauded the government of Bangladesh, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, for its notable socio-economic progress over the past 15 years. The Indian minister advocated for joint efforts between Bangladesh and India to fulfill the aspirations of their respective populations.
The evolving situation in Myanmar took center stage during their discussions, with a focus on its impact on regional stability and the repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar. Bangladesh's foreign minister reiterated India's support for the early repatriation of Rohingya refugees.