India has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering positive relations with Bangladesh and emphasized the importance of joint efforts to ensure a crime-free border.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, stated that India desires a "positive direction" in bilateral ties, with relations that benefit the people of both nations.
Bagchi highlighted the recent visit of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Bangladesh in December, during which he met with key Bangladeshi officials and emphasized India's support for a "democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive" Bangladesh.
Misri also reiterated India's commitment to building a "positive and constructive relationship" based on "mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity to each other's concerns and interests."
Addressing the recent summoning of the Bangladesh envoy by New Delhi, Bagchi clarified India's position on border fencing, stating that India expects Dhaka to implement all previous understandings in a cooperative approach towards combating cross-border crimes.
"We remain committed to ensuring a crime-free border with Bangladesh by effectively addressing cross-border criminal activities, smuggling and trafficking," Bagchi stated.
He further emphasized that measures such as barbed wire fencing, border lighting, and installation of technical devices are aimed at securing the border and combating criminal activities.
Last week, the Bangladesh Acting High Commissioner to India was summoned by the MEA, where India conveyed its adherence to all protocols and agreements regarding border security measures, including fencing. India also reiterated its commitment to addressing cross-border criminal activities and ensuring a secure border.
This reaffirmation of commitment to positive relations comes after the Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka was summoned by the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry to express concerns over the recent fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Despite these concerns, India maintains its position that border security measures are crucial for combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of both nations.
India's proactive approach in engaging with Bangladesh and reiterating its commitment to a positive and constructive relationship underscores the importance New Delhi places on its ties with Dhaka.
The emphasis on joint efforts to address border security concerns and combat cross-border crime highlights the shared responsibility of both nations in maintaining a peaceful and secure border.
