Dhaka: Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali on Tuesday hoped that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s proposed Indian visit this month will produce productive discussions on bilateral issues to further deepen the friendly ties between the two nations.

Speaking at a discussion programme, he also said the two close neighbours must work together to face the possible challenges and build a mutual prosperous future, reports news agency UNB.

“New steps will be taken through the Prime Minister’s proposed visit to India this month to further intensify the Bangladesh-India relationship and take it much forward. We also hope there’ll be fruitful discussions on the issues relating to bilateral interests,” the minister said.

Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee, a forum for secular Bangladesh and trial of war criminals of 1971, arranged the discussion titled ‘Indo-Bangladesh Friendship and South Asian Regional Security’ at Cirdap auditorium, marking the 45th anniversary of India’s diplomatic recognition to Bangladesh.

Mentioning that the feelings and environment for mutual cooperation created in 1971 still persist between the two nations, Mahmud Ali said it will also work as a bridge to show helping attitude towards each other in the days to come.

He also hoped such cooperation from a close neighbouring country will also help Bangladesh turn into a middle-income country by 2021 and developed one by 2041 under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Recalling India’s sincere support to attain the country’s independence and progress, the Foreign Minister said the government has taken an initiative to show the nation’s gratitude by proving honour at different levels to those who helped the nation get freedom.

During the Prime Minister’s visit, Mahmud Ali said, she will initiate activities to formally honour the all Indian martyr freedom fighters in Bangladesh’s Liberation War.

He also recalled with gratitude that India had recognised Bangladesh’s sovereignty on December 6 in 1971. “This day is very significant to us. The people of Bangladesh and its government have been remembering the day with deep gratitude since India gave the recognition.” 

Speaking at the programme, Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Harsha Vardhan Shringla said, “Today is a very special day. It represents the first concrete steps towards the creation of Bangladesh.”

He said the creation of is not only a matter of joy and pride for Bangladeshis, but also for every Indian citizen. “Today, the relationship between the two nations reflects the spirit of the 1971.”

The Indian envoy said, “I think if we didn’t have the closet relationship... we wouldn’t have been able to resolve both and land boundary and maritime boundary (issues) pending for so many decades...we have been able to resolved both these absolutely difficult issues. This is a testimony to our friendship and cooperation.”