Relations with India deteriorated during Muhammad Yunus’s tenure, admits Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor!

Dhaka (Bangladesh) – During the tenure of Muhammad Yunus’s interim government, relations between India and Bangladesh lacked ease and warmth. However, once an elected government comes to power, bilateral ties are expected to improve. This confidence was expressed by Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain, while addressing a press conference.

“We genuinely wanted to maintain good relations with India”

When asked about the state of India–Bangladesh relations during the interim government, Touhid Hossain said that due to several factors, relations between the 2 countries did not remain cordial during that period.

“We consistently spoke about maintaining good relations with India. There was no difference of opinion between me, the Chief Adviser, or the government on this issue. From the perspective of maturity and responsibility, we genuinely wanted to maintain good relations with India. That was always our intention,” he stated.

“There is no intention to blame anyone”

Responding to a question on why relations failed to move forward, Hossain said that multiple obstacles emerged while managing bilateral ties.

“I do not wish to blame anyone. India acted in accordance with its own national interests. Similarly, we tried to take steps that we believed would safeguard our interests,” he explained.

“Outstanding issues can be resolved under the next government”

Hossain further noted that differences in perspectives regarding mutual interests prevented progress in several areas. He expressed hope that these issues could be resolved under the next government.

“My successor and the government that follows may be able to re-establish a more comfortable relationship. Issues may continue to exist, but a relationship marked by ease and cooperation is important. During our tenure, that ease was largely missing,” he admitted.

“It would not be appropriate to comment on India’s stance on Sheikh Hasina’s return”

When questioned about India’s position on not sending Sheikh Hasina back, Hossain said it would not be appropriate to comment on India’s stance.

“We can only speak about what has formally occurred. We have requested her return, but so far, there has been no response from India. Beyond that, it would not be right to indulge in speculation,” he clarified.