By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Friday said that “India desires a positive, constructive and forward-looking relationship with Bangladesh. Accordingly, initiatives have been taken and meetings held under structured mechanisms in areas such as trade, railways, water resources and border management, among others”.

India expressed its readiness for consular dialogue with Bangladesh on a mutually convenient date after tensions with Bangladesh over the continued presence of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in this country.

He said the next round of consular dialogue between the two countries will also take up matters relating to revised travel arrangements. ‘’India remains ready to discuss all matters and bilateral issues with Bangladesh through the existing mechanisms, including at the technical level,’’ the spokesperson added.

He declined to say anything on questions relating to Sheikh Hasina’s proposal to return to her country in December.

Sheikh Hasina vowed to return home soon from a self-imposed exile since August 2024.

She said she has considered all possibilities, including arrest, imprisonment and even a death sentence. “I stopped worrying about my personal safety a long time ago. I returned to Bangladesh in 1981, despite military rule. I returned again in 2007, knowing that the military-backed government might arrest me. I have faced imprisonment and repeated attempts on my life.”

She added that fear has never stopped me from doing what I believe is right.”