Bangladesh urges India to prevent Hasina's political activities from its territory

Ahead of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's reported programme on August 5, Bangladesh on Monday conveyed to India that it expects New Delhi's cooperation in ensuring that no individual, including fugitive Hasina, can use Indian territory to make political statements or engage in activities aimed at creating instability in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir conveyed the message during a meeting with newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi at the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Kabir said such activities could undermine the positive momentum in bilateral relations between the two neighbours.

In response, the Indian High Commissioner assured him that the matter would be duly considered, necessary inquiries would be made and appropriate efforts undertaken, the ministry said.

The issue of Hasina's reported programme on August 5 featured prominently in the discussion.

According to Indian media reports, Hasina is expected to make her first public appearance in India since leaving Bangladesh following the student-led mass uprising two years ago.

Multiple media reports said she is scheduled to address a virtual event organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) in New Delhi.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed various aspects of Bangladesh-India relations and discussed issues of mutual interest.

They reaffirmed the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and constructive engagement, expressing hope that all outstanding issues could be resolved through mutual trust and discussion.

Both sides also expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral ties based on mutual respect, trust and shared interests.

In a separate statement, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka said the discussion focused on expanding people-centric cooperation between the two neighbouring countries for mutual benefit.

The High Commissioner reiterated India's commitment to working constructively with the Bangladesh government to advance the development aspirations of the people of both countries.