Indian Foreign Secretary Arrives in Dhaka for Key Bilateral Talks

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived in Dhaka this morning for the first high-level meeting between India and Bangladesh following the recent political changes in Bangladesh.

A special Indian Air Force flight, carrying Misri and other officials, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka around 9:00 AM, diplomatic sources confirmed.

Misri and Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen are set to lead the Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) at the State Guest House Padma at 11:00 AM. Following the talks, Misri is scheduled to meet with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna before departing Dhaka later this evening.

The meeting is expected to focus on addressing the tensions in bilateral relations that have emerged after the mass uprising on August 5, which led to the ousting of the Awami League government. A diplomatic source in New Delhi told The Daily Star, “The FOC will focus on bridging the gap and setting a positive political tone.”

According to diplomatic sources in Dhaka, Bangladesh is likely to seek India’s political support for the interim government led by Yunus.

Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought refuge in India. Issues such as restricted visas for Bangladeshis, disruptions to Indian-funded connectivity projects, and reduced trade and tourism have contributed to the growing tension.

The arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmay Krishna Das on charges of sedition and the subsequent denial of his bail in late November sparked protests in various parts of India. Additionally, the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala was attacked, further exacerbating tensions.

Bangladesh has accused certain sections of the Indian media and political figures of exaggerating reports of minority attacks and making provocative statements.

Speaking at an event at the National Press Club in Dhaka yesterday, Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain expressed hope for progress in the talks. “India must acknowledge the political changes and take steps to move the relationship forward,” he said, stressing the need for candid dialogue to resolve ongoing issues.

The Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) is an annual meeting that alternates between Dhaka and New Delhi, and it typically addresses key aspects of the bilateral relationship, including water sharing, border management, trade, and connectivity. According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam, these issues are expected to dominate today’s discussions.

This high-level meeting is seen as crucial for determining the future course of India-Bangladesh relations, especially in light of the ongoing tensions between the two nations.