Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi Urges Stronger Business Ties Between India and Bangladesh
Dinesh Trivedi says economic cooperation and private sector partnerships can strengthen people to people relations despite political differences.
DHAKA, Aug 24: Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi has called for stronger commercial engagement between New Delhi and Dhaka, stressing that economic cooperation should continue regardless of political developments.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat after meeting Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Monday, Trivedi emphasised the importance of expanding direct engagement between businesses in the two countries.
He said political developments would take their own course, but both sides had a responsibility to ensure that cooperation delivers tangible benefits for their people.
Trivedi expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations, saying the two countries should continue working together while allowing political matters to evolve separately.
His remarks came amid uncertainty surrounding a possible visit to India by Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The Indian envoy described India and Bangladesh as sovereign and independent nations that should engage with each other on an equal footing. He stressed that neither country should consider itself superior or inferior to the other.
According to Bangladeshi media reports, Trivedi also underlined the importance of maintaining peace and promoting prosperity, particularly for younger generations. He said sustained economic progress would be possible only when both countries worked to preserve peace and stability.
He further noted that ordinary people primarily seek basic necessities, security and a peaceful life. Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, Trivedi urged policymakers to consider how major decisions would affect the poorest sections of society.
The envoy also encouraged Bangladesh and India to explore additional joint-venture opportunities, including potential projects in areas along the border.
He highlighted the role of economic cooperation and people-to-people contacts in strengthening bilateral relations, saying greater private sector participation could help bridge differences between the two countries.
At a recent reception, Trivedi said governments alone could not meet every economic and social need and stressed the importance of businesses in supporting closer ties.
He also acknowledged the contribution of business communities from both countries and called for greater collaboration between the private sectors.
The remarks come as India and Bangladesh seek to maintain economic engagement while navigating broader political uncertainties. Trivedi’s emphasis on commercial cooperation reflects an approach focused on strengthening practical partnerships and improving outcomes for people on both sides of the border.
