Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced today the launch of an e-medical visa service for Bangladeshi citizens and the establishment of a new consulate in Rangpur, Bangladesh, during a meeting between the two delegations in the national capital.
He highlighted that the two leaders have had numerous meetings over the past year. He also noted the significance of this particular visit, as PM Sheikh Hasina is the first state guest of India during the third term of the NDA government.
PM Modi said in a press statement, “In the last year, we have met 10 times, but today’s meeting is special because PM Hasina is the first state guest of our third government. Bangladesh is crucial for our Neighborhood First policy, Act East Policy, Vision SAGAR, and Indo-Pacific vision. We have completed several developmental programs together in the last year.”
He added, “India will start e-medical visas for Bangladesh nationals coming to India for medical treatment. India has decided to open a new Assistant High Commission in Rangpur to benefit the people in the northwest part of Bangladesh.”
Ahead of the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash between India and Bangladesh today, PM Modi also gave best wishes to both teams. He said, “I also give my best wishes to both India and Bangladesh cricket teams for today’s match.”
PM Modi mentioned that India and Bangladesh are now trading in Indian Rupees, emphasized electricity exports from Nepal to Bangladesh through India’s grid, and announced plans for technical discussions on renewing the Ganga River treaty. Additionally, a team will visit Bangladesh to assess Teesta River protection and management.
“The sixth rail link between India and Bangladesh has started between Jakhoda and Agartala has started. Cargo services have been started for our north-eastern states with the Khulna-Mongla Port… Trade in Indian Rupees has started between the two countries. The world’s longest river cruise on the Ganges River between India and Bangladesh has been completed.”
“The first cross-border friendship pipeline between India and Bangladesh has been completed. The electricity export from Nepal to Bangladesh using the Indian grid has become an example of regional cooperation.”
PM Modi highlighted a futuristic vision for bilateral cooperation, stressing agreements on green partnerships, digital partnerships, blue economy, and space that will benefit youth. Emphasizing ‘Connectivity, Commerce, Collaboration’, he signaled readiness to start talks on CEPA to strengthen economic ties.
“Bharat-Bangladesh Maitri Satellite will give new heights to our relationship. Connectivity, Commerce, and Collaboration have been our focus. In the last 10 years, we have restored the connectivity that existed before 1965. We will now focus on digital and energy connectivity even more. This will speed up the economies of both countries,” the PM said.
Both sides are ready to start CEPA talks to boost economic ties. They’ve collaborated on flood management, early warning systems, and drinking water projects, leveraging the connection of 54 rivers between India and Bangladesh. The leaders met bilaterally today.