In a recent statement, Bangladesh's interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus underscored the need for equitable and fair relations with India. Speaking at a meeting with students who participated in the anti-government protests leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Yunus emphasized that while maintaining good ties with India is important, these ties should be founded on mutual respect and fairness.
Yunus's special assistant, Mahfuj Alam, relayed that the Chief Adviser highlighted Bangladesh's commitment to respect and equity in its relations with neighboring countries. Yunus also advocated for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to bolster regional cooperation.
The interim government, led by Yunus, took office following Hasina's resignation and flight to India on August 5, which was triggered by student-led protests over a controversial quota system in government jobs. Last week, Yunus expressed a desire for strong relations with India but challenged the notion that only Hasina’s leadership could ensure stability in Bangladesh.
Additionally, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain expressed surprise over remarks made by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Singh had suggested that the Indian military should prepare for potential future conflicts by analyzing current situations in Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh. Hossain questioned the rationale behind Singh’s comments and dismissed the idea of an imminent threat between the two nations.