India and Bangladesh solidified a forward-looking plan to enhance collaboration in various new sectors and signed multiple agreements on Saturday. These agreements aimed to strengthen relations in maritime affairs and the blue economy. The discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina led to the finalization of these significant pacts. Among the key agreements were those focusing on enhancing cooperation in the digital realm and establishing a “green partnership.” Additionally, the two countries signed an agreement to improve railway connectivity.
In his statement to the media, Modi expressed that a forward-looking vision for collaboration in new domains has been prepared today. The youth of both nations will reap the benefits of the consensus reached on cooperation in various areas, including green partnership, digital partnership, blue economy, and space.
Hasina, on the other hand, referred to India as Bangladesh’s significant neighbor and a reliable friend. She emphasized the importance of the relationship between the two countries, which originated from the War of Liberation in 1971, and expressed gratitude for India’s contribution to Bangladesh’s independence.
Additionally, Hasina paid tribute to the courageous Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 war. She further mentioned that productive discussions took place during the meetings, focusing on cooperation in security, trade, connectivity, water sharing from common rivers, power and energy, as well as regional and multilateral collaboration.
The Prime Minister of Bangladesh commenced her two-day trip to India on Friday. This marks the first official bilateral visit by a foreign leader since the new government took office in India post the Lok Sabha elections. During the morning, Hasina visited Rajghat to pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi. Prior to the discussions, the visiting dignitary received a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Officials have highlighted that the talks between Modi and Hasina will focus on enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of trade, connectivity, and energy. Hasina was one of the seven prominent leaders from India’s neighboring countries and the Indian Ocean Region who participated in the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Modi and the Union council of ministers on June 9.