India and Bangladesh Reaffirm Bilateral Commitment During BIMSTEC Summit
In a significant diplomatic exchange at the sidelines of the recent BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser to the Interim Government, Muhammad Yunus, held what has been described as a “very positive” meeting. Supradip Chakma, Adviser to Bangladesh’s Interim Government, highlighted the importance of this engagement, expressing optimism approximately its implications for future relation between the two neighboring nations.
A History of Deep-rooted Ties
In an interview with ANI, Chakma emphasized the long-standing and friendly relations which have existed between India and Bangladesh since the latter’s independence in 1971. He underscored that the inspiration of India-Bangladesh relations has continually been strong, owing to shared cultural, historic, and political links.
“This is the basic — you see, with the 2 neighbours, we have good relation since the creation of this nation,” Chakma said. “So, it is a prime step for the two of us. I severely agree with that the two leaders met together and talked very positively. This will certainly yield some good hope and aspiration for the two nation and their people.”
Strengthening Future Cooperation Through Engagement
Chakma turned into clear in his view that regular and sincere engagement is the cornerstone of bilateral progress. He suggest that political management in both nations should remain committed to open dialogue and constructive diplomacy to further deepen cooperation across various sectors which include trade, security, infrastructure, and people-to-people exchanges.
“I consider that in the future, we also need to stay hand-in-hand to increase and progress our relation and our people,” Chakma stated. “Engagement is very essential. Let us have interaction.”
India’s Concerns Over Minority Rights in Bangladesh
One of the significant issue raised by Prime Minister Modi during his conversation with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus was the condition of minority communities in Bangladesh, specifically Hindus. According to a statement ministry with the aid of India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to helping a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh.
He additionally conveyed India’s deep concern over the safety and security of minorities in the country. Modi advised the Bangladeshi leadership to take serious steps in ensuring safety for these communities and to thoroughly investigate any incidents of violence or discrimination that have been pronounced.
A Minority Voice From Within: Chakma Responds
Supradip Chakma, who himself is a member of Bangladesh’s minority community and a part of interim government, responded to PM Modi’s concern with empathy and realism. He acknowledge the role of that majority community play in fostering a sense of security and consider among minority populations.
“Being a minority community member in the cabinet, let me tell you that the big community has to take a positive attitude and positive role to develop the confidence of the smaller groups in the country,” Chakma explained. “It is not only matter of religious or ethnicity — it’s about national unity and trust. The majority must lead in creating that confidence.”
Chakma also voiced his personal commitment to inclusivity and stated that he has always believed in the role of majority communities in shaping a more equitable society. “I seriously accept, and I continually say, let the big community take the role, and then they will create confidence. And we will believe it. I am there.”
Outlook for Regional Cooperation
The BIMSTEC Summit itself, which brings together countries of the Bay of Bengal vicinity, serves as a vital platform for regional integration and cooperation. The Modi-Yunus dialogue aligns with the broader goals of BIMSTEC — to enhance mutual understanding, build economic synergies, and address common challenges such with poverty, climate change, and terrorism.
Going ahead, both India and Bangladesh appear committed to nurturing a relationship rooted in mutual respect, collaboration, and shared growth. Chakma’s call for continues engagement and Modi’s firm message of inclusivity together indicate that the leadership of both countries recognizes the need for active diplomacy and human rights sensitivity in shaping the future of South Asia.
