Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today emphasized the need to enhance cooperation between the military forces of Bangladesh and India, highlighting the significance of collaboration and mutual support between the neighboring nations. She stated, “Cooperation and collaboration should be strengthened between the militaries of the two neighboring countries”. These remarks were made during a courtesy call paid by Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande to the Prime Minister at her office in Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. After the meeting, the Prime Minister’s Speech Writer M Nazrul Islam briefed the journalists on the discussions.

Prime Minister Hasina referred to the establishment of the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT) by her government and highlighted the potential for bilateral activities and exchanges that can contribute to the welfare of both countries. She also expressed her gratitude for the support and involvement of the Indian government, the military, and its people during the 1971 Liberation War. Recognizing poverty as the primary adversary, she emphasized the necessity for united efforts among regional countries to eradicate poverty. She said, “Poverty is the main enemy of the people in the region, and countries in this region will have to work together to eradicate poverty”.

According to the Prime Minister, there is an excellent bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and India, and she emphasized the importance of utilizing this relationship for socio-economic development. Despite the challenges posed by population density and limited resources in Bangladesh, she emphasized the government’s dedication to advancing the socio-economic conditions of the country. During the meeting, General Manoj Pande, the Indian Army Chief, expressed satisfaction with the progress of cooperation and collaboration between the defense industries of Bangladesh and India. He also assured the Prime Minister that cooperation in the modernization of the Bangladesh Army would continue in the future.

Furthermore, General Manoj Pande highlighted the potential for further strengthening cooperation in technical and other areas between the two friendly nations and emphasized the need to use these opportunities for mutual benefits. He also shared his positive impression of the modern facilities he observed during his visit to the Bangladesh Military Academy in Chattogram. Further, the presence of Ambassador at Large Mohammad Ziauddin and Prime Minister’s Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah added to the significance of the meeting.