Dhaka-Delhi ties get a boost
we believe that the
teesta issue will soon be solved. Equal and fare share of a trans-boundary river water should never stand as a bone of contention between two historically
proven allies
There can be no substitute to stronger bilateral ties for harmonious and peaceful regional co-existence. Keeping that in mind, Bangladesh and India have jointly initiated to become even closer and stronger regional friends by inking some Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), extended $4.5 billion dollar worth of Line of Credit besides half a billion dollar worth defence purchase and co-operation agreements. The other instruments encompass cooperation in the fields of economy, power and energy, peaceful use of nuclear energy, outer space, information technology and mass media.
Indias unprecedented pro-active approach in boosting bilateral ties came in the wake of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas recent state visit on an invitation proffered by her Indian counterpart. The documents were signed after the official talks between Bangladesh and India at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Both the Prime Ministers witnessed the signing ceremony of the documents at Hyderabad House - the Indian Prime Ministers Office.
Four of the documents -- MoU on bilateral judicial sector cooperation, MoU on extending 3rd Line of Credit by India to Bangladesh worth $4.5 billion, MoU on cooperation of peaceful use of outer space and MoU on passenger and cruise services on the coastal and protocol route were exchanged prior to the joint press statements.
However, despite the presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the ceremony which included the inauguration of a trans-border rail line - the two sides were unable to make any progress on the Teesta water sharing agreement that Ms. Banerjee has been for so long opposing. Given the continual geographic deteriorating situation of the flow of Teesta inside Bangladesh territories, we believe the issue will soon be resolved. Equal and fare share of a trans-boundary river water should never stand as a bone of contention between two historically proven allies and neighbours.
It was long expected that - given Bangladeshs booming economy, firm commitment in fighting terrorism and growing geo-political importance Sheikh Hasina would engage her Indian counterpart in equal footing, and that she has done to her countrys benefit. Now we believe her government to positively inspire our Indian friends to run the extra mile for realising Bangladeshs fair and lawful demands.
Finally, both sides should focus on the big picture a stronger, stable and prosperous Bangladesh is not only good for herself, but also crucially needed within the region to help Indias long-term regional, economic, political and diplomatic interests. Long live Bangladesh-India friendship.
