New Delhi, April 8: Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalidur Rahman arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday evening as part of a “Goodwill Tour.” Dhaka hopes this visit will lay a significant foundation for strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs welcomed his arrival, stating that India and Bangladesh share historical and robust ties based on mutual connections among their people. This visit is expected to further solidify bilateral partnerships.
According to the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Rahman will participate in the Indian Ocean Conference in Mauritius from April 10 to 12, during which he will stay in New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet with India’s Foreign Minister, National Security Advisor, and Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas for courtesy discussions.
This visit is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first trip to India by a Bangladeshi minister since the BNP-led government took office in February. It is seen as a sign of a new direction in India-Bangladesh relations.
During the meetings, key issues such as the restoration of visa services, enhancing energy cooperation, strengthening border management, resolving river water-sharing disputes, and improving trade facilitation are expected to be discussed.
Reports indicate that Bangladesh may urge India to take positive steps to fully restore visa services. Since July 2024, tourist visas for Bangladeshi citizens have been suspended due to security concerns, and visa centers are operating with limited staff.
Previously, India’s High Commissioner Pranay Verma met with Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation. India has expressed its desire to strengthen relations in a positive and constructive manner based on shared interests.
Recently, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to India, Riaz Hamidullah, met with Indian Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi to discuss defense cooperation, joint training, and regional peace.
This visit comes at a time when both countries are taking steps to renew and strengthen their cooperation.
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