Bangladesh again seeks energy cooperation from India

BD Digest Report
that a positive response or ‘green signal’ has been received regarding energy imports from India, said State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam. However, he advised to contact the concerned ministry for specific information on the energy sector.

He made this statement while talking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday (March 24) afternoon.

Responding to journalists’ questions, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs said, “As far as we know, we have received the green signal from India. However, the Ministry of Energy can provide details on this matter.”

He indicated that the government is continuing regular discussions with India to ensure regional energy security.

Regarding the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Shama Obaid said that the current government has started strong activities in this regard within just a month of assuming office, including the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi and other people who are absconding in India. He said, “We have had several meetings with the Indian High Commissioner in the last one month. As you have seen, there have also been meetings with the Foreign Minister. We have talked to the Indian government about bringing back all those who are absconding in India.”

The State Minister further said that the current government is giving top priority to national interests before implementing any agreement. He clearly said that we will implement any agreement by protecting the interests of Bangladesh. Before finalizing any agreement, it will definitely be discussed in the parliament. There will be opportunities to discuss this issue in the parliament and outside the parliament. Even if any agreement with the United States is at the negotiation stage, it will also be discussed openly keeping national interests in mind.

It is worth noting that the current government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy with India to rebuild diplomatic and economic relations after the change of government. However, it remains to be seen how like-minded parties in parliament, including Jamaat-e-Islami, view the BNP government’s relationship with India this time.