PM for boosting connectivity with neighbours

FT ONLINE

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday put emphasis on strengthening connectivity with all neighbours for the sake of development of this region.

“Connectivity is very important with all neighbours. We’re expanding the connectivity and even reopening the routes that were closed down after the 1965 India-Pakistan war,” she said when Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Banshidhar Mishra met her at her Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban office.

PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters after the meeting.

Noting that Bangladesh developed its airports, the Prime Minister said people of the neighbouring countries, living near the borders, can take the opportunity to travel abroad using these airports. “We’re trying to open an air-link with the USA and Canada,” she said.

She said Nepal and Bhutan can use Saidpur Airport, and Mongla and Payra seaports.

Bhutan was also given offer to find out a place to make a warehouse for goods imported through the ports, Sheikh Hasina said.

Mentioning that Bangladesh shares an excellent relation with Nepal, she recalled Nepal’s support to Bangladesh during the 1971 Liberation War.

Nepalese Ambassador Dr. Banshidhar Mishra said their country wants to establish a comprehensive connectivity with Bangladesh. “The BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement is now on track,” he said.

He put emphasis on increasing the trade between Nepal and Bangladesh, particularly commodity trade.

Dr. Banshidhar Mishra lauded Sheikh Hasina for her leadership to develop Bangladesh. “You’re honoured and highly revered in Nepal. The Nepalese people praise your leadership. We follow your country,” he said.

He said Sheikh Hasina’s leadership is an example for Nepal to follow as Bangladesh is progressing through struggles under her leadership.

Noting that both Nepal and Bangladesh share a similar cultures, the Nepalese ambassador recalled Bangladesh’s support to Nepal during an earthquake, calling it a great support.

He also handed over an invitation letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to attend Sagarmatha (mountain) dialogue to be held in Kathmandu in April next.

Nepal will host the first edition of the Sagarmatha Dialogue, to be held on April 2-4 in Kathmandu with the participation of some 250 people, including experts and heads of state and government, from some 40 countries aiming at steering global discourse on climate change towards the Himalayas.

PM’s Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus was present at the meeting.