Bangladesh Calls for 'Fresh Start' in Relations with India: Home Adviser

Bangladesh's Home Affairs Adviser Salahuddin Ahmed has emphasized the need for a "fresh start" in bilateral relations with India, stating that the two neighboring countries are mutually dependent due to their geographical, social, political, and economic realities.

He made the remarks on Monday during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Tripathi at his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs at the Bangladesh Secretariat.

During the meeting, the two sides held what officials described as positive and constructive discussions on bilateral relations and various issues of mutual interest.

Ahmed acknowledged that Bangladesh and India have differences on certain issues but said these could be resolved through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect. He stressed that future engagement should be based on equality and urged India to demonstrate sincerity in strengthening the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

For his part, High Commissioner Dinesh Tripathi reaffirmed India's commitment to advancing bilateral ties.

"We not only share a geographical border but also share the dream of prosperity," he said.

Tripathi noted that disagreements on various issues are a natural feature of democratic societies.

"The existence of issues is the beauty of democracy. If there are no issues, it cannot be considered a true democracy," he said, adding that despite existing challenges, the people of both countries aspire to build a strong and mutually beneficial relationship that creates a win-win situation.

The Indian envoy also expressed confidence that there is no bilateral issue that cannot be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic efforts. He voiced optimism that relations between the two neighbors would become stronger and brighter in the coming days.

During the meeting, the Bangladeshi adviser requested India to repatriate former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, along with all other identified fugitive criminals currently residing in India, in accordance with the existing prisoner exchange and extradition agreements so that they can face legal proceedings in Bangladesh.

He also urged the Indian side to expedite the extradition of the accused in the Shahid Osman Hadi murder case under the bilateral extradition treaty.

Responding to the request, High Commissioner Tripathi said India would examine the matter through its legal processes before making a decision.

Senior officials from Bangladesh's Ministry of Home Affairs and representatives of the Indian High Commission were also present at the meeting.