India and Bangladesh should seize this opportunity to consolidate and deepen their friendship and cooperation and work together for the peace, prosperity, and progress of the region and the world.
The re-election of Sheikh Hasina as the prime minister of Bangladesh for a fifth term is a welcome development for India and its neighbourhood policy. The overwhelming mandate for Hasina’s Awami League on January 7, 2024, reflects the popular support for her leadership and vision for the country. It also provides an opportunity for India and Bangladesh to further strengthen their bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields.
India and Bangladesh share historical, civilizational and cultural ties; Bengali, which is spoken in both countries, is a strong bond. Bilateral relations have generally been warm, especially when the Awami League has been in power in Bangladesh. Since the Awami League assumed the reins in 2009, relations have improved substantially. The two countries have resolved long-pending issues such as the land and maritime boundaries, exchanged enclaves, enhanced connectivity and trade, and signed agreements on energy, security, and development cooperation. India has also extended generous lines of credit and grants to Bangladesh for various infrastructure and social sector projects.
FLASH: PM Sheikh Hasina secures her historic fifth term in office as the counting of votes for the Bangladesh elections concludes.
Despite low turnout and a boycott, the Awami League, under her leadership, clinches an absolute majority with 216 out of 224 seats.… pic.twitter.com/RX7AwaI8tH
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) January 8, 2024
The two countries have also cooperated closely in combating terrorism and extremism, which pose a common threat to their security and stability. Bangladesh has taken effective action against the anti-India militant groups operating from its soil and has handed over several wanted fugitives to India. India has also supported Bangladesh in dealing with the humanitarian crisis caused by the influx of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar and has provided relief assistance and development aid to the displaced people.
The two countries have also worked together to promote regional and sub-regional cooperation through platforms such as SAARC, BIMSTEC, BBIN, and IORA. They have also coordinated their positions on global issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and UN reforms. The re-election of Sheikh Hasina is a positive sign for the future of India-Bangladesh relations. The two countries should seize this opportunity to consolidate and deepen their friendship and cooperation and work together for the peace, prosperity, and progress of the region and the world.