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India and Bangladesh have forged robust political, economic, and cultural ties over the past five decades, marked by regular high-level exchanges. India's support for Bangladesh's independence underscores their strong historical ties. Bilateral trade has flourished, with Bangladesh emerging as India's largest trade partner in South Asia. Development partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and energy collaborations signify their multifaceted cooperation. Both nations engage in joint military exercises and cooperate in multilateral forums as well. However, issues such as river water-sharing disputes and low trade volume persist. Moreover, Bangladesh's involvement in China's Belt and Road Initiative and interest in joining Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) pose strategic concerns for India. To further enhance relations, addressing mutual grievances, leveraging cultural and economic strengths, and prioritizing connectivity projects are crucial. Bangladesh's pivotal role in India's neighborhood policy underscores the potential for a deep and fruitful partnership.
India has provided grants for various infrastructure and development projects in Bangladesh, including the construction of the Akhaura-Agartala rail link, dredging of inland waterways, and the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
Challenges include unresolved issues such as transboundary river water disputes, communal violence, Rohingya refugee crisis, and security concerns like illegal immigration, border management, and cross-border trafficking
In March 2021, India announced the offering of 1000 "Suborno Jayanti Scholarships" specifically for Bangladeshi students. These scholarships aim to promote educational opportunities and foster academic exchange between India and Bangladesh.
Over the past five decades, India and Bangladesh have consistently strengthened their political, economic, trade, and cultural ties, establishing a comprehensive institutional framework to facilitate bilateral cooperation. Regular high-level exchanges, visits, and meetings, as well as extensive people-to-people interactions, underscore the depth of their relationship. Recent years have seen a surge in bilateral activities between the two nations, reflecting the robustness of their ties. Notably, in 2021, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bangladesh as a "Guest of Honour" during the Mujib Borsho, marking the centenary of Bangladesh's founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. In 2022, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh paid a State Visit to India from 5th to 8th September and also attended the G20 Summit from 8th to 10th September 2023.
India was the first country to recognize Bangladesh's independence and promptly initiated diplomatic relations with the newly established state following its declaration of independence in December 1971. The relationship between India and Bangladesh is deeply rooted in civilization, culture, society, and economy. Numerous factors unite the two countries, including a shared history, heritage, linguistic and cultural affinities, as well as mutual appreciation for music, literature, and the arts. This shared identity is evident in the multi-faceted and expanding relations between India and Bangladesh. Moreover, the geographical proximity of the two nations presents a favorable opportunity to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth mutually.
Moving forward, it is imperative to leverage the cultural and economic strengths shared between India and Bangladesh. Addressing key grievances such as water management and the Rohingya refugee crisis should be a priority. Rising Chinese influence is another cause for concern which New Delhi must take seriously. Recognizing the rarity of harmonious neighbourly relations, both countries should aim for a partnership where the sky's the limit. Bangladesh should not only be a part of India's neighbourhood first policy but should also serve as a central pillar in the broader strategic framework. By fostering deeper collaboration and mutual understanding, India and Bangladesh can chart a path towards shared prosperity and regional stability.
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