Dhaka Seeks Stronger Ties with Delhi Based on Mutual Respect

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain welcomed the presence of the Indian medical team in Bangladesh and reiterated that the interim government has always aimed for a good working relationship with India, grounded in reciprocity and mutual respect.

“We have wanted this from day one. Our position remains unchanged,” he said on Thursday, emphasising that no one from the interim government has ever opposed good relations with India.

He made these remarks in response to questions about whether the arrival of the Indian medical team signalled a positive step towards improving ties between the neighbouring countries.

The team of burn specialists and nurses from India arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday night to provide medical assistance to victims of the recent aircraft crash.

Comprising experts from Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi—India’s leading centres for burns and plastic surgery—the team began treating patients at a designated hospital on Thursday morning.

Their visit follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pledge to offer full assistance and support in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The Indian specialists are currently assessing the condition of patients and recommending further treatment, including specialised care in India if required. Additional medical teams may be dispatched based on this initial evaluation.

On July 21, Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences for the lives lost in the tragic crash and assured Bangladesh of India’s support.

Earlier, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka formally requested information on any critical medical needs that might require arranging treatment in India for the injured.

The High Commission confirmed on Tuesday that it would facilitate all necessary support.

This outreach follows Prime Minister Modi’s message expressing sorrow over the Milestone School plane crash and his offer of comprehensive assistance.

On a related note, Modi highlighted the importance of BIMSTEC cooperation in tackling security challenges that affect the region’s development aspirations.

“India stands in solidarity with Bangladesh and is ready to extend all possible support and assistance,” Modi said in a message on Monday.