Bangladesh is aiming to paint a “new canvas” in its relationship with India by envisioning a shared future despite present challenges, Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah said today.

Speaking at an interactive session hosted by the Merchants' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) in Kolkata, Hamidullah acknowledged differing perspectives between the two neighbours but noted that such complexities are natural in a long-standing relationship. “If we point out a particular aspect of the canvas, we will not be doing justice,” he said.

Bilateral relations have remained tense since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina last year, with analysts suggesting that the scope for full normalisation may remain limited until an elected government takes office in Dhaka.

On December 1, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the health of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, offering prayers and support for her recovery — a gesture seen as closely watched in diplomatic circles.

Describing the relationship as “organic,” Hamidullah highlighted rapidly expanding economic engagement, now exceeding $25 billion, including significant tourism flows. He cited Bangladesh’s growing import basket and enhanced port and logistics capacity as indicators of future growth.

“We have not constrained the mobility of Indians into Bangladesh. Relations are anchored in the people in every possible sense. I qualify this as mutual interdependence,” he added.

Hamidullah also disclosed plans for a Bangla film festival in New Delhi next year and proposed encouraging tours for Indians to visit their ancestral roots in Bangladesh.

Emphasising Dhaka’s current priorities, he said cultural diplomacy, tourism facilitation and deeper economic integration would guide Bangladesh’s intent to broaden engagement during a sensitive phase in bilateral ties.

BOB Post