Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok yesterday.
The Prime Minister reiterated India's commitment to supporting a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Emphasizing his country's people-centric approach to bilateral relations, Modi highlighted that cooperation between the two nations has brought tangible benefits to both countries' populations. He emphasized the need for a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism.
Modi urged caution against rhetoric that could undermine the environment and called for strict enforcement of laws along the border to prevent illegal cross-border movements, especially at night. The Prime Minister also expressed his concern over the safety and security of minority groups in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, and hoped that the Bangladeshi government would ensure their protection by thoroughly investigating cases of atrocities committed against them.
The Prime Minister congratulated Bangladesh on taking over as the Chair of BIMSTEC and looked forward to the forum advancing regional cooperation under its leadership. Leaders from both countries agreed to enhance consultations and cooperation to advance regional integration, including within the BIMSTEC framework.
Modi expressed his confidence that all issues of mutual interest between India and Bangladesh would be addressed through constructive discussions, in line with their long-standing and mutually beneficial bilateral relationship.