Interdependence, Mutual Benefit to Guide Dhaka-Delhi Ties: Verma

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, emphasized that India’s partnership with Bangladesh must bring tangible benefits to the people on both sides, highlighting that the relationship has always been people-centric. He expressed strong confidence that the enduring cultural, societal, and economic interconnections between the two countries will continue to drive their relationship forward.

At a reception marking India’s 76th Republic Day at a Dhaka hotel on Saturday evening, Verma stressed that India remains committed to supporting a “democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive” Bangladesh. He reiterated India’s desire to foster a “stable, positive, constructive, and forward-looking relationship” with Bangladesh, in which the people remain the primary stakeholders.

The event, which featured Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud, Planning and Education Adviser to the Bangladesh government, as the chief guest, underscored the longstanding collaboration between the two nations across diverse sectors. Dr. Mahmud reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties based on mutual respect and understanding of each other’s priorities and concerns.

Notable political figures in attendance included Dr. Kamal Hossain, Emeritus President of the Gono Forum; Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury; GM Quader, Chairman of Jatiya Party; Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin; and senior military and government officials, as well as ambassadors, business leaders, civil society members, and media professionals.

High Commissioner Verma reflected on the deep cultural and historical bonds shared by India and Bangladesh, stating that the people-to-people connections have been the cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. He also acknowledged that both countries' peace, security, progress, and prosperity are intertwined, and their collaboration is crucial for the stability of the Bay of Bengal region. Verma particularly highlighted the need for joint efforts to address environmental sustainability and climate change, shared challenges that affect both nations.

He noted that recent developments in connectivity and economic cooperation have further strengthened the ties, fostering closer relationships between the peoples, businesses, and societies of both countries. Verma expressed optimism that this shared interdependence will guide future cooperation and unlock new opportunities for both nations and the broader region.

Looking back at India’s journey since becoming a republic 76 years ago, Verma celebrated the nation’s transformation from poverty to becoming a modern, capable economy contributing to global progress. He credited India’s success to good governance, inclusive development, and the empowerment of its people through technology.

Verma also acknowledged Bangladesh as a key partner in India’s journey, noting their shared history, language, culture, and the sacrifices made during the Liberation War. He spoke fondly of the deep cultural ties between the two countries, pointing to the shared legacy of luminaries such as Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam, whose works continue to connect the peoples across borders. This shared love for literature, music, art, and mutual respect forms the bedrock of the enduring partnership.

As India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, Verma extended his best wishes to the people of Bangladesh, emphasizing that India views its relationship with Bangladesh as one rooted in long-term partnership and mutual benefit.

In India, President Droupadi Murmu led the nation’s Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path in New Delhi on January 26, 2025. The event marked a special focus on 75 years of the Indian Constitution and the theme of "Jan Bhagidari," inviting 10,000 distinguished guests from various fields to celebrate the achievements of "Swarnim Bharat."