Tarique's India visit will help resolve outstanding issues: Dinesh Trivedi

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi on Wednesday expressed optimism over Bangladesh-India ties, saying there is "no problem that cannot be resolved" and that bilateral issues would move forward constructively once Prime Minister Tarique Rahman visits India.

"I am looking at everything positively. We had a great meeting filled with immense positivity," Trivedi told reporters after separate courtesy calls on Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Asked about the two invitations extended by India to the Bangladeshi prime minister, the High Commissioner said it was up to the prime minister to decide.

"From our end, I can assure you that we are looking forward to welcoming the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to India. We are very hopeful that this visit will take place in the near future," he said.

Responding to questions on unresolved bilateral issues, including the Teesta and Ganges water-sharing agreements, Trivedi said all outstanding matters could be addressed through dialogue.

"Today's meeting was primarily a courtesy call and carried the warmth expected of one. However, there is no issue that cannot be sorted out through mutual understanding. Ultimately, it is about the people. Whatever benefits both democracies and their citizens will be prioritised," he said.

On the renewal of bilateral treaties, Trivedi said India and Bangladesh have active joint working groups that would continue discussions.

"These working groups will certainly meet and deliberate. As I mentioned, there is no problem that cannot be resolved. They will do their part, and once the Prime Minister visits India, things will move forward constructively," he said.

Describing the meetings as "remarkably good", the High Commissioner said they were held in an exceptionally warm atmosphere.

"Our relationship is truly historical. We share not only our borders, but also our history, culture and aspirations," he said, adding that the two sides also discussed cultural and sporting ties, including cricket.

"I am looking forward to a relationship whose foundation rests on mutual, people-to-people benefits for both nations. This is just the beginning, and I am confident we will continue to engage more deeply in the future," he added.

Deputy High Commissioner Pawan Badhe and other officials of the Indian High Commission were also present.

Trivedi presented his credentials to the President of Bangladesh on June 25, when he conveyed greetings from the government and people of India and reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to strengthening the multifaceted partnership between the two neighbouring countries.

India has invited Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit, scheduled to be held in New Delhi on September 12-13. The summit will focus on global cooperation, trade and sustainable development.