'Ties must serve mutual interest': EAM Jaishankar on Bangladesh

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar asserts that for any relationship to thrive, it must possess a mutual interest, serving the interests of both parties involved. He emphasizes that India and Bangladesh must work for one another, not just for India's benefit alone. Jaishankar expressed his hope that upon meeting, they can find common ground that would facilitate a smooth relationship.

Earlier, Jaishankar had announced that India had extended an invitation to Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for a bilateral visit. At the ET World Leaders Forum, the minister reiterated India's stance on Pakistan, stating that dialogue and terrorism cannot coexist. He also clarified that the government cannot disregard public opinion within the country.

Looking ahead, Jaishankar highlighted that both India and China share an interest in maintaining stability in their relationship. While he anticipated Modi's meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the SCO and BRICS summits, Jaishankar stressed that India must engage with the entire world, including China.

Although an official announcement is pending, Xi is scheduled to visit India for the BRICS summit on September 12-13, marking his first visit to the country since 2019. Jaishankar explained that the primary purpose of the interaction is to modernize India's economy and develop its capabilities, while also fostering trade and other economic engagements with China.

Additionally, Jaishankar reported that India is keeping tabs on business visa delays faced by Indian nationals in China. He reminded the audience of the challenging phase India and Bangladesh experienced between 2020 and 2024, reiterating that the state of the border will determine the relationship. He also noted that as two of the world's largest economies, their mutual trade and cooperation would benefit both nations significantly.