State polls result won’t affect BD

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed has said that the outcome of the West Bengal state elections will not have any impact on Bangladesh-India relations, regardless of which party comes to power.

She made the remarks while briefing reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, stating that the West Bengal elections are an internal matter of India.

“We have our own interests to protect. Whatever government comes to power in West Bengal, it will not affect our bilateral relations,” she said.

Responding to a question, the State Minister added that discussions on the issue should be viewed in the context of India’s democratic process.

She also said that since a democratic government has been formed in Bangladesh through elections, the country supports the strengthening of democracy in all neighbouring states, including India.

Regarding the long-pending Teesta water-sharing agreement, Shama Obaed said discussions between the two countries are ongoing and Bangladesh remains hopeful of a positive outcome.

She also expressed optimism that visa processing between Bangladesh and India would return to normal soon.