Misri’s Visit to Dhaka Aimed to Strengthen India-Bangladesh Ties

During a media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the visit was a significant step in sustaining diplomatic dialogue between India and Bangladesh. "Our understanding is that Foreign Secretary Misri’s visit will help maintain bilateral engagement, with the goal of addressing concerns and advancing substantive issues in our relationship," he said.

Jaiswal also highlighted a key development from the visit, noting that Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor informed Misri about the arrest of approximately 70 individuals in connection with attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. "We hope, and expect, that the Bangladeshi authorities will take the necessary actions to ensure justice," he added.

During his visit on December 9, Foreign Secretary Misri held important discussions with Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Mohamed Younus and Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain. Misri also engaged in Foreign Office Consultations with his Bangladeshi counterpart, Jashim Uddin.

The MEA spokesperson conveyed that Misri reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting a "democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh" and emphasized the importance of building a constructive and positive relationship based on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity to each other’s concerns. Misri also addressed various concerns during the meetings, particularly the safety and welfare of religious minorities in Bangladesh. He expressed India’s disappointment over several recent attacks on cultural and religious sites, as well as diplomatic properties, in the country.

When asked about a recent telephone address by ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to her supporters in the US and UK, in which she criticized the interim government, Jaiswal refrained from commenting. "It is not our practice to comment on speculative and selective reports regarding privileged matters," he stated.

Since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5, Bangladesh has been under the rule of an army-backed Interim Government, led by Nobel laureate Mohamed Younus. Following the political turmoil, Hasina has sought refuge in New Delhi.

The bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh has been strained recently due to a rise in attacks on Hindu minorities, along with the desecration of Hindu temples and properties. India has repeatedly urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of its minority communities. Tensions further escalated earlier this month when the arrest and denial of bail to an ISKCON monk in Bangladesh sparked protests in India. Hindu demonstrators vandalized the Bangladeshi mission in Agartala, prompting Bangladesh to summon the Indian High Commissioner, Pranay Verma, for a formal discussion.