Reviving SAARC, renewing Ganges Treaty can usher a new chapter for BD-India relations on mutual respect
In a significant diplomatic overture, Bangladesh has urged India to engage in discussions aimed at renewing the Ganges Water Treaty and reviving the stalled SAARC Summit.
As per a report published in this newspaper on Monday, this call, articulated by Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain during a recent meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar at the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, underscores the pressing need for enhanced regional cooperation in South Asia.
The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, established in 1996, is set to expire in 2026. As a lower riparian country, Bangladesh’s rights to the river’s waters are paramount, and the urgency of renewing this treaty cannot be overstated.
The treaty has been a cornerstone of Bangladesh-India relations, fostering a spirit of collaboration over shared resources. With climate change and increasing water scarcity looming large, both nations must prioritise this dialogue to ensure sustainable water management and avert potential conflicts.
Moreover, the call to revive the SAARC Summit is equally critical. The last summit, scheduled for 2016, was postponed due to geopolitical tensions, and since then, regional cooperation has stagnated.
The Interim Government of Bangladesh, led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, is advocating for a renewed commitment to unite South Asian nations under a common platform. In a region marked by shared challenges — be it economic development, security, or climate resilience — SAARC’s revival could provide a vital framework for collaboration.
The Indian Ocean Conference, themed “Voyage of New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” highlighted the complexities of maritime supply chains, an area where both nations can significantly benefit from cooperation.
Hossain’s emphasis on easing visa and administrative procedures for seafarers reflects a broader need to enhance trade and connectivity in the region.
As Bangladesh and India navigate their bilateral relationship, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges while fostering a spirit of cooperation. The discussions held in Muscat represent a crucial step towards addressing these issues.
Both nations must seize this opportunity to strengthen ties, ensuring that mutual interests are prioritised for the benefit of their peoples and the broader South Asian region.
In an era where regional cooperation is more vital than ever, the time for dialogue and action is now. The future of Bangladesh-India relations — and indeed, the stability of South Asia — depends on it.