Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Hails India-Bangladesh Relations as Model for South Asia
Dhaka: On Tuesday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remarked that the relationship between India and Bangladesh serves as a model of bilateral cooperation for the South Asian region.
Her comments came during a courtesy call from Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, who commenced a five-day visit to Bangladesh on June 30 to strengthen bilateral defense ties and explore new avenues of maritime cooperation. This visit marks Admiral Tripathi’s first official international visit since assuming command of the Indian Navy two months ago.
“Bangladesh and India have resolved many issues through dialogue. This relationship could serve as an example for other neighboring countries,” said Prime Minister Hasina, according to her press secretary, Nayeemul Islam Khan.
During their meeting at her Sangsad Bhaban Office, Hasina highlighted the successful resolution of land and maritime boundary disputes between the two nations as exemplary achievements in bilateral relations. She also expressed gratitude for India’s support during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, stating, “We always remember the assistance and contribution of the Indian people during our War of Liberation.”
Admiral Tripathi expressed his sense of familiarity in Bangladesh, noting the minimal differences between the two countries in terms of nature. He praised the unique professional relationship between the naval forces of both nations, emphasizing that the Indian Navy readily cooperates with the Bangladesh Navy.
Tripathi mentioned that many Bangladeshi naval officers receive training in India and extended an invitation for more officers to be sent for training if desired. He also visited the Bangladesh Military Museum, describing it as a world-class military history gallery, and noted he would bring back ideas to replicate in the Indian armed forces.
The Press Secretary noted that Hasina and Admiral Tripathi agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, and affirmed that both countries would work together to prevent any disturbances in the region.
Admiral Tripathi also visited the Bangabandhu Museum, the home of Bangladesh’s assassinated founder and the premier’s father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He expressed his admiration for Rahman’s sacrifice and contribution.
Additionally, Tripathi praised Bangladesh’s development under Prime Minister Hasina’s leadership, according to the press secretary.
