India keen to deepen ties with Bangladesh: Pranay Verma

Emphasising the enduring friendship between Dhaka and New Delhi, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Sunday said India is willing to work closely with Bangladesh to fulfil the aspirations of their people and strengthen people-to-people ties, inspired by shared sacrifices of the past and guided by future ambitions.

“The bonds we share with Bangladesh are not transient; they are everlasting. A relationship forged in blood and sacrifice cannot be weakened. Together, we will carry this shared legacy forward into the future,” he said while speaking at an evening programme.

The High Commissioner noted that Bangladesh and India have come a long way since 1971 and are now among the world’s fast-growing economies. He said the two societies are closely interconnected and interdependent, with geographical proximity offering new opportunities driven by growing capabilities and ambitions.

Verma said India stood with the people of Bangladesh during the Liberation War and would continue to support their vision for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive nation.

The programme was organised by Itihash O Oitijjo Parishad to mark the anniversary of Bangladesh’s Mahaan Muktijuddha (Great Liberation War), with the High Commissioner and his wife in attendance.

Referring to December as Victory Month, Verma said it was a time of remembrance and gratitude for the immense sacrifices made during Bangladesh’s struggle for freedom. He paid tribute to the people who endured oppression, killings and subjugation with courage, grit and determination.

Recalling Martyred Intellectuals Day, he said the systematic killing of scholars, doctors, journalists, artists and educators in 1971 was an attempt to destroy the very soul of the emerging nation. He honoured the martyred intellectuals, saying their sacrifices continue to inspire the values of knowledge, wisdom and moral courage.

During the Liberation War, Verma said, India supported Bangladesh at every step in its pursuit of truth, justice, dignity and freedom, noting that thousands of Indian soldiers also lost their lives, while many more were wounded.

He recalled that earlier this month India and Bangladesh commemorated Maitri Dibos, marking the anniversary of India’s recognition of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign nation ahead of its liberation.

As Bangladesh approaches Victory Day on December 16, the envoy said it was vital for the younger generation to learn and carry forward the history and ideals of the Liberation War. He praised student artworks displayed at the programme for reflecting creativity, empathy and a strong sense of history.

In the presence of war-wounded freedom fighters, Verma said hopes are now placed in today’s children to uphold the ideals and values of the Liberation War, adding that only then would the sacrifices of the martyrs find their true meaning.