Connectivity vital for two countries

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said a greater connectivity is vital for the development of the two countries and the region.

The signing of a slew of deals on that front are examples of two countries' commitments to seamless connectivity, she said in a statement after official talks with the Indian premier.

"We understand each other's concerns and priorities. Prime Minister Modi and I agree that a greater connectivity is vital for the development of the two countries and for the region," she added.

Hasina also mentioned that connectivity across the region would reduce inequalities and maximise welfare gains. The new trade facilitation measures incorporated in the agreements would create new opportunities for trade, investment and business.

"We've very good co-operation in power and energy sectors," she said in her statement.

The signing of the Coastal Shipping Agreement, renewal of the Trade Agreement and the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade as well as the flagging off new bus service were examples of their commitment to seamless connectivity across the region, Hasina said.

"We're transforming our relationship to a greater height," she mentioned.

On the Land Boundary Agreement (LBA), Hasina said with the exchange of the letters of ratification of the 1974 LBA, it brought peaceful end to a 68-year-old humanitarian issue.

"We're extremely happy that the land boundary issue has finally been resolved. I appreciate Prime Minister Modi's leadership in achieving it. It has been possible for his bold leadership," she said in the statement.

She thanked the people and all political parties in India for their unequivocal support to the agreement.

"In this context, I recall with gratitude the historic role of our Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the then Indian prime minister Srimati Indira Gandhi."

Hasina recognised the contribution of Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. "We remember with deep gratitude the enormous contribution of India in our glorious War of Liberation."

She recalled that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in a speech delivered in Kolkata on February 6, 1972, had said, "As for us, we'll be wanting to cooperate with all concerned for creating an area of peace in South Asia, where we could live side by side as good neighbours and pursue constructive policies for the benefit of our people…."

"This visionary statement encapsulates how we look at South Asia. I believe we could collectively achieve greater peace, stability, progress and prosperity for the people in the region which was the dream of our Father of the Nation," she added.

Hasina also mentioned that India is certainly Bangladesh's most important neighbour and one of the key development partners.

To bring balance in trade between the two countries, she said both countries agreed to establish Special Economic Zones in Mongla and Bheramara for India.

"We hope this would increase Indian investment in Bangladesh substantially. Today, we have signed a number of bilateral documents, covering diverse areas of co-operation."

These include economic co-operation, trade and investment, security, infrastructure development, education, science and technology, IT and culture.

"We also discussed the issues of sharing of water of 54 common rivers. We both reiterated our strong commitment to make our borders peaceful and prosperous. We also pledged 'zero tolerance' against terrorism and extremism," she added.

The PM also said people-to-people contact is the strongest of links.

"Together, we decided to open Bangladesh Mission in Guwahati, Indian Missions in Khulna and Sylhet. This again reflects our growing mutual confidence and shared commitment to expand our relationship.

"We have to translate the declaration into concrete deliverables. I assure you, Prime Minister, that we are committed to extend full support and co-operation in this journey," Hasina said.