New beginning needed to strengthen Bangladesh-India ties: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said a new beginning is imperative to strengthen friendly relations between Bangladesh and India.

He made the remarks during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi at the Home Ministry in the Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday (10 August).

Salahuddin said Bangladesh and India are interdependent for geographic, social, political and economic reasons.

“Against this backdrop, it is important to make a fresh start by leaving past issues behind,” he said.

The Home Minister said some issues between the two countries could be resolved through mutual cooperation and dialogue.

He also urged the Indian High Commissioner to expedite the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and other accused under the existing extradition agreement and the exchange of detainees, so that they can be brought before the judiciary.

Salahuddin also requested the Indian envoy to hand over the alleged killers of Osman Hadi to Bangladesh.

In response, the Indian High Commissioner said his government would actively consider the issues after examining the relevant laws.

The Home Minister said bilateral relations should move forward on the basis of equality, mutual respect and dialogue.

The meeting was described as positive and constructive, with discussions held on various issues of mutual interest.

The Indian High Commissioner expressed his country's keenness to further strengthen bilateral relations.

“We not only share borders, but also share aspirations and dreams,” he said.

He said differences over various issues are normal in a democratic system, describing such differences as part of the beauty of democracy.

“The main aspiration of both countries is to build a strong and unique relationship that will create a welfare-oriented environment for both sides,” he said.

The Indian envoy said there was no issue between the two countries so complex that it could not be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic means.

Expressing optimism about the future, he said relations between the two countries would become brighter and stronger in the days ahead.