Staff Reporter :
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to maintaining friendly and cooperative relations with Bangladesh, emphasizing that the nation values its ties with all neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh.
In an exclusive interview with IANS on Saturday, Rajnath Singh stated, “India always wants to maintain good relations with its neighbours, and Bangladesh is no exception.
Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee used to say that we can change friends, but not our neighbours. So, we would like to maintain good relations with Bangladesh.”
The remarks come as India continues its diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of regional stability and cooperation.
During a media briefing in New Delhi on Friday, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed India’s support for a stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh, emphasizing that all issues should be resolved through democratic processes and inclusive elections.
However, Jaiswal also raised concerns about the deteriorating law and order situation in Bangladesh, citing the release of violent extremists sentenced for serious crimes as a factor worsening the situation.
In a related development, officials from Bangladesh and India recently held the 86th meeting of the Joint River Commission in Kolkata, where discussions focused on renewing the Ganges water-sharing treaty. The 30-year-old agreement is set to be renewed next year.
Both sides addressed technical issues related to the treaty, including the measurement of water flows and other mutual interests.
Additionally, Jaiswal commented on reports of violence against minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh.
He urged the Bangladeshi authorities to thoroughly investigate these incidents and ensure that all perpetrators of killings, arson, and violence are brought to justice, irrespective of the victims’ religious affiliations.
As the discussions between the two nations continue, India remains committed to fostering bilateral relations and ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
