Dhaka: Describing his first meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as fruitful, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi on Monday emphasized that Bangladesh and India not only share a border but also share dreams. Trivedi expressed optimism about the potential for discussions and resolutions between the two nations, highlighting the importance of maintaining good relations as a win-win situation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Trivedi met with other key figures, including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, as part of efforts to engage constructively and advance bilateral relations. The High Commissioner, who submitted his credentials on June 25, focused on issues of mutual interest, reaffirming Bangladesh’s “Bangladesh First” policy and its commitment to a forward-looking, mutually respectful relationship with India.
Despite recent tensions following former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s speech in New Delhi, both countries are signaling renewed engagement. The discussions with Bangladesh officials underscored the importance of people-to-people relations and the confidence in resolving outstanding issues.
Dinesh Trivedi also touched on the upcoming 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where India has extended an invitation to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as the BIMSTEC Chair. The summit, scheduled for September 12-13, will focus on global cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.
Energy cooperation was also a key topic during Trivedi’s meeting with Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood. Both parties discussed strengthening cross-border power and energy connectivity, emphasizing mutual interest, energy security, and sustainable development.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam reiterated the importance of constructive engagement with India, emphasizing the need for dialogue to resolve bilateral issues related to water, energy, and border management. She highlighted that Bangladesh’s relationship with India extends beyond current issues and requires continued dialogue and cooperation.
In a people-centric initiative, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka responded to a mother’s request for a safe play area at the Indian Visa Application Centre, demonstrating a commitment to fostering strong ties between the two nations based on the foundation of their people.