Diplomatic Correspondent :
Bangladesh has called for the resolution of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan through dialogue, following the recent killings of visitors in Kashmir, a popular tourist destination.
Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain emphasised Bangladesh’s commitment to regional peace and stability.
He stated, “Our position is clear – we want peace in South Asia. We are aware that India and Pakistan share a long history of conflict and complex relations. However, we do not wish to see any major conflict that could endanger the peoples of the region.
Bangladesh maintains friendly relations with both India and Pakistan.”
Responding to questions on whether Bangladesh would consider mediating between the two nations, Hossain said that while Bangladesh is willing to play a mediating role if requested, Dhaka is not inclined to take proactive steps on its own initiative.
“We hope that India and Pakistan will resolve their differences through dialogue. Some countries have already offered to mediate, and whether the path is mediation or bilateral discussions, we wish for tensions to de-escalate and peace to prevail,” he remarked.
When asked if Bangladesh might take a similar role to that proposed by Iran and Saudi Arabia, Hossain responded, “I do not think it is appropriate for us to assume a mediating role at this moment. We hope that India and Pakistan can address their issues independently. However, should both nations seek our assistance, we would certainly consider stepping in.”
Commenting on whether the India-Pakistan tensions could impact Bangladesh, the Adviser noted, “In today’s interconnected world, events tend to affect everyone to some extent. While the conflict does not directly impact Bangladesh – as we have taken no sides – in terms of trade and business, any deterioration in regional relations could have some effect.”
Regarding security along the Bangladesh-India border, Hossain said that matters of security fall under the purview of the relevant authorities. “At this moment, I have no such information,” he added.
On the issue of Bangladeshi nationals reportedly detained in India, the Adviser clarified that India had not yet officially communicated any information to Bangladesh. “If a formal complaint is lodged, Bangladesh will take steps to verify the authenticity of the matter,” he assured, noting that many Bengali-speaking individuals reside within India.
Notably, on Saturday, Gujarat police detained 1,024 individuals alleged to be Bangladeshi nationals during raids in Ahmedabad and Surat, claiming they were residing illegally. These actions followed a gunman attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on 22 April, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists and prompted nationwide operations.
Turning to Myanmar, Hossain underlined Bangladesh’s unavoidable involvement in the neighbouring country’s affairs due to the presence of hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees.
He stated that, given the complexities in Rakhine State and the lack of full government control, initiating dialogue with the Arakan Army was not inappropriate.
Hossain also highlighted Bangladesh’s agreement to provide “safe passage” for Rohingyas under a United Nations proposal, while stressing that several conditions would need to be fulfilled to implement such measures.
