Bangladesh expects a resolution to the continuing trade recession with India that has lasted for the last two to three months, according to Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain today.
“The slowdown is impacting not just Bangladesh but also India. Traders in Kolkata are facing the brunt as well,” he said while addressing a discussion titled “SAARC: People of South Asia Crave for Cooperation,” held at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital.
Hossain continued, “We hope the standoff will be resolved soon,” expressing optimism.
According to the foreign adviser, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow for the Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between Bangladesh and India. The purpose of the FOC is to discuss bilateral trade concerns and other issues of mutual importance.
“If we want to solve problems, we have to first acknowledge their existence,” Hossain remarked, emphasizing the importance of frank dialogue between the neighbours.
After Bangladesh’s August 5 political transition, he emphasised a fundamental transformation in the relationship between Bangladesh and India.
The conference, which brought together specialists to examine regional potential and challenges, was hosted by the Bangladesh Chapter of the SAARC Journalist Forum.
The foreign adviser turned to regional cooperation and said he hoped SAARC Foreign Secretary-level meetings, which have been on hold for ten years, will resume.
According to him, this might open the door for talks at the level of foreign ministers and ultimately a SAARC summit.
He cited a statement made by an Indian ambassador to emphasise the necessity of reviving the regional group, saying, “SAARC appears dead, but it should not be buried.”
The adviser underscored the importance of regional cooperation to boost trade, enhance economic growth, and alleviate poverty in South Asia, urging member states to overcome bilateral differences for the collective benefit of the region.
Touhid noted that the SAARC Summit has been stalled for 10 years, largely due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
The foreign adviser laid emphasis on the necessity of regional cooperation to tackle common challenges.
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