Bangladesh steps back again! Yunus’ finance adviser says, ‘we do not want poor relations with India’

Dhaka (The Uttam Hindu): Amid reports of violence, killings of Hindus, arson, and unrest in Bangladesh, along with the rise of anti-India elements, a significant statement has come from the interim government regarding relations with India. Bangladesh’s Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said that Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is actively working to improve strained ties with New Delhi.

Speaking to journalists after a meeting of the Adviser Council Committee on Government Procurement, Ahmed said the Yunus-led administration is prioritising economic interests over political rhetoric. He stressed that efforts are being made to strengthen economic cooperation with India rather than escalate diplomatic tensions.

Ahmed stated that the Chief Adviser is engaged in improving diplomatic relations with India and has held discussions with several stakeholders connected to the issue. However, when asked whether Professor Yunus has directly spoken to Indian officials, he clarified that no direct talks have taken place so far, though contacts have been made with relevant parties.

The finance adviser made it clear that Bangladesh’s trade policy is not driven by political ideology. He said that if importing rice from India is cheaper than sourcing it from Vietnam or other countries, then it makes economic sense to buy from India. In this context, he confirmed that Bangladesh has recently approved a proposal to import 50,000 tonnes of rice from India, calling it a positive step towards better bilateral relations.

According to Ahmed, rice imported from Vietnam costs nearly 10 taka (around 0.082 US dollars) per kilogram more than Indian rice, making Indian imports more beneficial for Bangladesh’s economy.

His remarks come at a time when political analysts believe that India-Bangladesh relations are at one of their lowest points since Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. Reports of diplomatic tensions, summoning of envoys, and protests have surfaced in recent months. However, Ahmed downplayed the severity of the situation, saying that while it may appear serious from the outside, the reality is not as grave.

He acknowledged that certain statements cannot be ignored but said they do not reflect the sentiment of the entire nation and could create unnecessary complications. On concerns that anti-India feelings may be instigated by external forces, Ahmed said Bangladesh does not want bitterness between the two countries. He added that any attempt by outside forces to create problems would not serve the interests of either nation. Reiterating the interim government’s position, he said maintaining friendly relations with India remains a priority and all economic decisions will be taken strictly in national interest.