Pranab in Dhaka to talk over terror & trade

In the first high-level talk since the Hasina-led government came to power, India will seek Bangladesh’s cooperation in its fight against the growing terror menace when external affair minister Pranab Mukherjee arrives in Dhaka today (February 9).

Mukherjee is also likely to discuss the setting up of a joint anti-terror mechanism and also cross border terrorism with the concern that Bangladesh soil being used by terrorists.

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A proposal for formation of a South Asian anti-terrorism task force is also on the agenda of talk.

On his day-long good will visit, the external affairs minister will call on the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina and meet Foreign Minister H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni, Home Minister H.E. Advocate Sahara Khatun and other leaders of Bangladesh.

Discussion on trade and water issues will also be on high priority. It is to mention here that the existing three-year bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has to be renewed this March.

EAM will unveil a model of the 2800 cyclone-resistant dwelling units that the Government of India is building in eleven villages in Bangladesh affected by the devastating cyclone in November 2007.

This apart, the Indian minister will also be laying the Foundation Stone for Kalabhaban of the Department of Theatre and Music in the University of Dhaka, which is being built with Indian assistance.

Briefing reporters in Dhaka on Sunday, Indian High Commissioner Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty said all issues would come to the table when Mukherjee will arrive in Dhaka this morning.

An EAM press statement highlighted the importance of Indo-Bangla bilateral relations by saying that both nations share common values, a commitment to democracy and a multi-faceted historical relationship. India looks forward to work closely with the newly elected government in Bangladesh to further strengthen its cooperation in a range of areas.