Trivedi puts people at heart of India ties
Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi has called for renewed efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and India, describing such connections as the “true beating heart” of the longstanding bilateral relationship amid efforts to advance cooperation between the two neighbours.
Speaking at a reception marking India’s 80th Independence Day at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Saturday, Trivedi said the relationship was built on shared history, mutual goodwill and common aspirations, and stressed the importance of maintaining those bonds as the two countries pursue greater cooperation.
“We recognise that it is the people-to-people connection, rooted in shared aspiration and mutual goodwill, that remains the true beating heart of this enduring friendship,” he said.
Indian Deputy High Commissioner Pawan Badhe, members of the Indian community, including students, and prominent Bangladeshi personalities attended the programme.
Reflecting on the historical foundations of Bangladesh-India relations, Trivedi said the two countries’ ties were closely connected to their respective struggles for freedom.
“As we celebrate our independence, it is only fitting to reflect on the special relationship we share with Bangladesh,” he said.
“With the history of the freedom struggle, our bond is deeply entwined. On this solid bedrock of shared history, mutual respect, and partnership, our relationship continues to flourish,” he added.
The high commissioner said the two countries were continuing to expand cooperation in key areas, including trade, connectivity, security and healthcare.
He called for sustained efforts to deepen bilateral friendship and promote common development.
“Let us also continue to nurture the exceptional bonds of friendship between India and Bangladesh, working hand in hand toward shared prosperity,” Trivedi said.
His emphasis on people-to-people relations comes against the backdrop of longstanding social, cultural and economic links between the two countries.
Family connections across the border, education, cultural exchanges, trade and travel have remained important channels of interaction between the peoples of Bangladesh and India.
Trivedi also used the occasion to highlight India’s democratic traditions and economic and social development since independence.
“Today we celebrate not only the dawn of our freedom, but the enduring strength of our democratic traditions, and the remarkable growth story of modern India,” he said.
He said India was moving ahead with momentum driven by innovation, resilience and the aspirations of its citizens.
“As we look at the future, let us reaffirm our commitment towards India’s continued progress, unity, and prosperity,” he said.
As part of the Independence Day celebrations, officers and staff of the Indian High Commission took part in a Swachhata Abhiyan around the mission premises, which the mission described as reflecting a shared commitment to a cleaner and greener environment.
During the programme, Trivedi also read out remarks from Indian President Droupadi Murmu, who paid tribute to the country’s freedom fighters and highlighted India’s development and democratic journey.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended Independence Day greetings, recalling the courage and sacrifices of those who fought to end colonial rule.
He said their ideals continued to inspire India as it pursued the goal of “Viksit Bharat”, or developed India, while highlighting the contribution of 140 crore Indians to the country’s progress across different sectors.
The Dhaka programme placed people-to-people connections at the centre of India-Bangladesh relations, with Trivedi stressing that shared history, mutual goodwill and common aspirations would remain important to strengthening ties and advancing cooperation between the two neighbours.
