Bangladesh to Attend BIMSTEC Security Meeting Despite Rejecting India's Explanation

Bangladesh will participate in the upcoming BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' Meeting in New Delhi on July 16 despite rejecting India's explanation over the recent airport incident involving Prime Minister's Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman.

Officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Bangladesh has taken a policy decision to attend the meeting, noting that as the current chair of BIMSTEC, participation is both a responsibility and an obligation.

Bangladesh will be represented by the Prime Minister's Defence Adviser, Brig. Gen. (Retd.) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam. The Indian government has already been informed of his participation through diplomatic channels.

Foreign ministry officials said Bangladesh found the explanation provided by India's Ministry of External Affairs regarding Dr. Zahed's return from Delhi airport unsatisfactory and has formally rejected it.

They added that during Brig. Gen. Shamsul Islam's visit, Bangladesh will closely observe whether India, as the host country, adheres to established diplomatic protocol and international norms.

According to the officials, Bangladesh has also requested that India extend the appropriate diplomatic courtesies to its delegation. They said India's conduct during the visit would be an important consideration in shaping future high-level visits and official engagements between the two countries.