M Riaz Hamidullah at Idea Exchange: ‘Ready to engage with India on even keel… must pass through intersection of dignity and shared benefits’

M Riaz Hamidullah, the outgoing High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, discussed various aspects of the India-Bangladesh relationship during a conversation with Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Editor of The Indian Express. Hamidullah highlighted the importance of understanding the people and demographics beyond the State-to-State interactions in shaping the relationship between the two nations.

He emphasized the positive shift in the Bangladesh government's approach, particularly under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who maintained open and candid communication with India. The new government's readiness to engage in bilateral relations on an even keel, while ensuring that everything passes through the intersection of dignity, trust, respect, and shared benefits, was a significant improvement from the past.

Hamidullah also touched upon the importance of addressing cross-border mobility concerns and the need for a techno-political approach to managing water from the Ganga River. He stressed that the relationship should be based on mutual interests, considering the ecological, cultural, and identity aspects involved.

Regarding the impact of the political rhetoric during the Bengal elections and subsequent detentions, Hamidullah acknowledged the damage caused by uncharitable words that ruptured the relationship. However, he noted that Bangladesh showed a willingness to engage seriously and sincerely with India by reviewing each case of irregular mobility individually.

He concluded by emphasizing that while the relationship is complex and has had its challenges, the new Bangladesh government is open to cooperation and finding mutually beneficial solutions.