Relations must be advanced on the basis of equality: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called for resolving the existing differences between Bangladesh and India through mutual cooperation and dialogue.

He said, "It is essential to leave the past behind and make a 'fresh start' in the relationship. In this regard, India must come forward with sincerity."

He made these remarks during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi at his office in the Ministry of Home Affairs today (Monday).

The meeting discussed bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India, various issues of mutual interest, and law enforcement and security cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, the Home Minister said that Bangladesh and India are interdependent on each other in various aspects, including geographical, social, political, and economic contexts. In the interest of the people of both countries, it is necessary to further strengthen friendly relations. He acknowledged that there are differences or issues between the two countries on some matters. However, these problems can be resolved through mutual cooperation and dialogue.

He made it clear that the relationship between the two countries must be advanced through discussions based on equality and mutual respect. For this, India also needs to take sincere initiatives.

In response, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh K. Tripathi expressed his commitment to further advancing bilateral relations. He said, "We do not just share a geographical border; we also share dreams of prosperity."

Acknowledging that challenges on various issues in bilateral relations are normal, the High Commissioner said that in a democratic culture, it is natural to have differences of opinion on various matters. Having issues is the beauty of democracy. However, overcoming these challenges, the expectation of the people of both countries is to establish a strong and excellent relationship. Such a relationship must be built where both countries benefit and a 'win-win' environment is created for the people of both nations.

Trivedi added, "There is no complex issue between Bangladesh and India that cannot be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic means. In the coming days, the relationship between the two countries will become even stronger and brighter."

Bangladesh demands for extraditation of Sheikh Hasina, other fugitives

During the meeting, the Home Minister raised the issue of sending back ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other identified fugitive criminals residing in India to Bangladesh. He urged India to swiftly hand over Sheikh Hasina and all other identified fugitive criminals staying in India under the existing prisoner exchange and extradition treaty, so that they can be brought before Bangladesh's justice system.

Additionally, a request was made to extradite the accused in the Shaheed Osman Hadi murder case back to Bangladesh as soon as possible, in accordance with the extradition treaty.

In response, the Indian High Commissioner informed that his country would legally examine the matters and make a subsequent decision. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and representatives from the Indian High Commission were present at the meeting.