New Delhi, June 22, 2024: At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, paid a state visit to India from June 21-22, 2024. This visit marked a key moment in India-Bangladesh relations, reinforcing the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations. The visit was characterized by a series of high-level meetings, agreements, and the articulation of a shared vision for future collaboration.
First State Visit Hosted By India After The Formation Of The New Government
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit commenced with a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a series of discussions with Indian leaders. She met with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
During these discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of their historical bond, rooted in the shared sacrifices of 1971 and driven by their new aspirations of the 21st century. They acknowledged the significance of their relationship, transcending a mere strategic partnership and evolving into a comprehensive alliance based on shared values, equality, and mutual trust.
Strategic Agreements and Initiatives
The leaders agreed on the need to enhance multi-faceted connectivity, turning geographical proximity into economic opportunities. They announced the operationalization of the BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement and signed a new MoU on Railway Connectivity, facilitating the movement of goods between the two nations and beyond, including Nepal and Bhutan.
Both sides committed to expanding their power and energy cooperation, including the development of intra-regional electricity trade from clean energy projects in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. A major step in this direction is the construction of a 765 kV high-capacity interconnection between Katihar-Parbatipur-Bornagar.
The leaders launched the "Shared Vision for India-Bangladesh Digital Partnership" and "Shared Vision for India-Bangladesh Green Partnership for a Sustainable Future." These initiatives aim to leverage emerging technologies for sustainable development, economic growth, and regional prosperity. Collaboration in frontier technologies, including civil nuclear, oceanography, and space technology, was also agreed upon, with plans for the joint development of a small satellite for Bangladesh.
Emphasizing the importance of economic collaboration, both leaders resolved to commence negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and operationalize two Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Bangladesh. New border-haats and trade facilitation measures were also agreed upon to enhance bilateral trade.
Recognizing the critical role of water management in their bilateral relationship, the leaders agreed to prioritize data exchange and formulate a framework for interim water sharing. They welcomed the formation of a Joint Technical Committee for renewing the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty and discussed conservation and management of the Teesta River.
Both nations resolved to strengthen defense cooperation, exploring defense industrial collaboration for the modernization of Bangladesh's Armed Forces. Multifaceted military engagements, including joint exercises and training, were also highlighted.
A new Framework Agreement for Development Partnership was concluded, aiming to expand the reach of projects and programs aligned with the priorities of the Bangladeshi people and government. Capacity-building programs for various Bangladeshi services were also agreed upon.
The leaders emphasized nurturing cultural and historical linkages through exchanges among scholars, students, and youth. Support programs for Muktijoddhas and their families were announced, alongside new medical and educational initiatives.
To facilitate cross-border travel, India extended e-Medical Visa facilities to Bangladeshi citizens. A new Assistant High Commission of India in Rangpur was also announced to expedite consular and visa services.
The leaders recognized the importance of youth development through education, skilling, entrepreneurship, technology, sports, and creative industries, aiming to respond to the aspirations of their younger generations.
Both nations reiterated their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, secure, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. They agreed to co-lead the ‘Disaster Risk Reduction and Management’ pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and to collaborate on mitigating disaster risks and building disaster-resilient infrastructure.
The India-Bangladesh relationship was envisioned as a major anchor for regional and sub-regional integration under the BIMSTEC, SAARC, and IORA frameworks. Both countries pledged to work together on global platforms to promote their common interests, especially those of the Global South.
Conclusion: First Incoming Bilateral State Visit Looks Promising
The state visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India not only reinforced the robust bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh but also set a visionary path for future cooperation. The comprehensive agreements and initiatives articulated during the visit are expected to transform the India-Bangladesh partnership, fostering peace, prosperity, and development for the region and beyond.