Bangladesh-India relations will not progress if stuck in the past: Dinesh Trivedi

He said this while briefing journalists after a courtesy meeting with Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moin Khan and State Minister Mir Shah Alam on Tuesday (September 1).

Dinesh Trivedi said both countries have their own challenges and will continue to have them in the future. However, these challenges must be tackled and proceed on the path of mutual cooperation and development. The history of the past cannot be denied, but if stuck in the past, it is difficult to advance development and cooperation.

He said that in addition to government-level contacts, the relationship between the people of Bangladesh and India needs to be deepened. Decisions of the two countries also affect the lives of ordinary people. Therefore, the relationship should be advanced by giving importance to the welfare of the people.

Regarding the relations between the two neighbouring countries, the Indian High Commissioner said Bangladesh and India not only share a border, they also share their dreams. The two countries are equal—no one is bigger or smaller. Because of this, mutual responsibility is also important.

Dinesh Trivedi did not want to directly comment on Bangladesh's internal politics. He said one should not comment on the internal political affairs of any country. The government elected by the people's votes will best understand what is good for the country's people.

The meeting also discussed Bangladesh-India economic and commercial relations. He said views were exchanged on building a more open and mutually beneficial trade relationship between the two countries.

Meanwhile, State Minister Mir Shah Alam said the Indian High Commissioner has conveyed greetings on the occasion of BNP's founding anniversary. The meeting also discussed local government elections, and the High Commissioner highlighted India's experience in this regard.

Mir Shah Alam said the Indian High Commissioner has been informed of the plan to hold local government elections within the current fiscal year. However, the government sees holding free, fair and impartial elections as a major challenge.