Bangladesh has rejected Chinese vaccine. It is finally distancing itself from Beijing. Palki Sharma Upadhyay asks - Can India seize the moment? Perhaps, start with settling the Teesta water dispute?

Gravitas: Teesta water dispute: Time to settle it?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit.

Immediately after his country's independence in 1971 from Pakistan after a bloody war, Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman visited India in March of 1972 and during the visit, Indo Bangla treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed.

Meanwhile, PM Modi in his letter lauded PM Hasina's policies, saying, "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday."

"Your visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation and equally your contribution to our bilateral relations has been extremely impressive," he added.

Ties between the two countries have seen fast-paced and positive developments in last few years -- as the two leaders have termed the phase of friendship as "shonali adhyay" or "Golden Age".

India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission will virtually meet on Tuesday with Bangladesh represented by its foreign minister A K Abdul Momen and India by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrote to his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, on her birthday while Indian envoy Riva Ganguly Das personally handed her a rare footage of her father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 India visit. Immediately after his country's independence in 1971 from Pakistan after a bloody war, Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman visited India in March of 1972 and during the visit, Indo Bangla treaty of friendship, cooperation and peace was signed. Meanwhile, PM Modi in his letter lauded PM Hasina's policies, saying, "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday." "Your visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation and equally your contribution to our bilateral relations has been extremely impressive," he added. Ties between the two countries have seen fast-paced and positive developments in last few years -- as the two leaders have termed the phase of friendship as "shonali adhyay" or "Golden Age". India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission will virtually meet on Tuesday with Bangladesh represented by its foreign minister A K Abdul Momen and India by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

India's birthday gift to Bangladesh PM: Rare footage of father's 1972 India visit

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her.

"We always think that better cooperation with the neighbouring countries is firstly needed for the development of the people of the region," Hasina's press secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted her as telling Das during the meeting at the prime minister's official residence Ganobhaban.

"Our foreign policy is friendship to all and malice towards none," Hasina said as issues of bilateral interests came up during their discussion.

The Indian envoy handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his Bangladeshi counterpart greeting on her birth anniversary and also presented a bouquet to her on his behalf.

"Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday?Your (Hasina) visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation, and equally your contributions to our bilateral relations have been extremely impressive," Modi's letter read.

During the meeting, the Indian envoy reiterated the importance of Bangladesh in the "Neighborhood First" policy of India and "recounted the progress made in the bilateral relations under the visionary leadership" of the two prime ministers, said a press release issued by the Indian mission here.

It said that the golden jubilee celebration of 1971 Liberation War and the fiftieth anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in the next year also figured in their meeting.

The Indian envoy presented a collection of rare footage of the visit of Hasina's father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to India in 1972 to her.

She thanked Das for her contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh relations.

Hasina said the neighbouring countries could use Bangladesh's Chattogram, Sylhet and Syedpur Airports for their convenience.

Karim said the COVID-19 situation and the Rohingya crisis also came up for discussion.

Das' call on came as officials said Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen was set to join with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday through virtual platform.

Momen recently described bilateral ties with New Delhi "rock solid".&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Sunday that the neighbours in South Asia should have "better cooperation" for benefit of their own people as outgoing Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das made a farewell call on her. "We always think that better cooperation with the neighbouring countries is firstly needed for the development of the people of the region," Hasina's press secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted her as telling Das during the meeting at the prime minister's official residence Ganobhaban. "Our foreign policy is friendship to all and malice towards none," Hasina said as issues of bilateral interests came up during their discussion. The Indian envoy handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his Bangladeshi counterpart greeting on her birth anniversary and also presented a bouquet to her on his behalf. "Please accept my warm wishes and hearty congratulations on your birthday?Your (Hasina) visionary leadership has helped Bangladesh achieve immense social and economic transformation, and equally your contributions to our bilateral relations have been extremely impressive," Modi's letter read. During the meeting, the Indian envoy reiterated the importance of Bangladesh in the "Neighborhood First" policy of India and "recounted the progress made in the bilateral relations under the visionary leadership" of the two prime ministers, said a press release issued by the Indian mission here. It said that the golden jubilee celebration of 1971 Liberation War and the fiftieth anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations in the next year also figured in their meeting. The Indian envoy presented a collection of rare footage of the visit of Hasina's father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to India in 1972 to her. She thanked Das for her contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh relations. Hasina said the neighbouring countries could use Bangladesh's Chattogram, Sylhet and Syedpur Airports for their convenience. Karim said the COVID-19 situation and the Rohingya crisis also came up for discussion. Das' call on came as officials said Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen was set to join with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday through virtual platform. Momen recently described bilateral ties with New Delhi "rock solid".

Sheikh Hasina stresses 'better cooperation' with neighbours as outgoing Indian envoy calls on

India to export 25,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh, arrangement has been made to export on emergency basis. Bangladesh requested India to withdraw ban soon.

India to export 25,000 tonnes of onions after Bangladesh expressed concern

India permits export of 25,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla has wrapped up a 'very satisfactory' visit to Bangladesh. His visit comes after a report claimed that China wants to lend almost $1 Billion for the Teesta project.

Gravitas: India-Bangladesh to strengthen ties

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay".

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Muhammad Imran highlighted the close ties between India and Bangaldesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and how Indian and Bangaldeshi forces shed blood together for their war of liberation.&nbsp;

On August 15, 1975, he and his family was brutally assassinated by renegade members of the military.

Excerpts from the interview

WION: Today is the death anniversary of your father of the nation.

Muhammad Imran: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is our father of the nation and he has inspired the whole country to struggle against all types of oppression. He was a leader who guided you towards independence. But unfortunately he was killed in 1975 on this day along with his family. We mourn his death and we pledge the ideals he showed will be carried forward. Especially his dream for Sonar Bangla. We will take it forward and new generation will implement it.

WION: How were the ties between Indian leadership and father of your nation?

Muhammad Imran: He was taken first to London when he was coming back from Pakistani captivity but he decided to stop over in Delhi to pay his respect, to show people of India how much we adore and recognise their support for our Independence. In February, Bangabandu came to Calcutta and Indira Gandhi went to Bangladesh in March 1972 and relations at that time -- it was high point. Now, PM Modi has take a good initiative to take relations to a higher level. The relations are currently going through a golden era.

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay".

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay". Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Muhammad Imran highlighted the close ties between India and Bangaldesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and how Indian and Bangaldeshi forces shed blood together for their war of liberation. On August 15, 1975, he and his family was brutally assassinated by renegade members of the military. Excerpts from the interview WION: Today is the death anniversary of your father of the nation. Muhammad Imran: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is our father of the nation and he has inspired the whole country to struggle against all types of oppression. He was a leader who guided you towards independence. But unfortunately he was killed in 1975 on this day along with his family. We mourn his death and we pledge the ideals he showed will be carried forward. Especially his dream for Sonar Bangla. We will take it forward and new generation will implement it. WION: How were the ties between Indian leadership and father of your nation? Muhammad Imran: He was taken first to London when he was coming back from Pakistani captivity but he decided to stop over in Delhi to pay his respect, to show people of India how much we adore and recognise their support for our Independence. In February, Bangabandu came to Calcutta and Indira Gandhi went to Bangladesh in March 1972 and relations at that time -- it was high point. Now, PM Modi has take a good initiative to take relations to a higher level. The relations are currently going through a golden era.

PM Modi taking bilateral ties to higher level, says Bangladesh envoy to India

Bangladesh's&nbsp;Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to&nbsp;construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. The anniversary&nbsp;coincided with the 50th anniversary of the country's independence.

“We are constructing the monument coinciding with the 50th anniversary of our independence” crucially backed by India, a ministry spokesman quoted Haque as saying.

The statement was made when the&nbsp;Indian High Commisisoner Riva Ganguly paid a farewell visit to Haque. Both the leaders assured he media that the two countries are friendly neighbours and friends.

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“Some people are out to spread misleading information purposely to worsen the relations between the two next-door neighbours but the Bangladesh-India ties are not so fragile,” Ganguly said.

She also urged the Bangladesh government to translate the books based on Liberation War to Hindi, and expressed willingness to participate in Bangladesh's golden jubilee of their independence in 2021.

An official familiar with the monument project said the government has selected 3.5 acres of land at frontier Ashuganj of Brahmanbaia district bordering Agartala.

“The site which has been selected has historic significance . . . Indian army fought Pakistanis some decisive wars in 1971 along with our freedom fighters in Ashuganj,” the official said.

The monument's construction will begin this year and will be completed in the next two years, the minister claimed.

(With inputs from PTI)

Bangladesh's Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan.

Bangladesh's Liberation War Affairs Minister Mozammel Haque has announced plans to construct a monument in the memory of the Indian soldiers martyred in the 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. The anniversary coincided with the 50th anniversary of the country's independence. “We are constructing the monument coinciding with the 50th anniversary of our independence” crucially backed by India, a ministry spokesman quoted Haque as saying. The statement was made when the Indian High Commisisoner Riva Ganguly paid a farewell visit to Haque. Both the leaders assured he media that the two countries are friendly neighbours and friends. × “Some people are out to spread misleading information purposely to worsen the relations between the two next-door neighbours but the Bangladesh-India ties are not so fragile,” Ganguly said. She also urged the Bangladesh government to translate the books based on Liberation War to Hindi, and expressed willingness to participate in Bangladesh's golden jubilee of their independence in 2021. An official familiar with the monument project said the government has selected 3.5 acres of land at frontier Ashuganj of Brahmanbaia district bordering Agartala. “The site which has been selected has historic significance . . . Indian army fought Pakistanis some decisive wars in 1971 along with our freedom fighters in Ashuganj,” the official said. The monument's construction will begin this year and will be completed in the next two years, the minister claimed. (With inputs from PTI)

Bangladesh to build monument for Indian soldiers martyred in 1971 Liberation War

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday wrote to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Friday sending greeting on the occasion of Eid ul Azha and assuring support for the country's health sector amidst COVID pandemic.

Highlighting that the "festival of Eid ul Azha which is also celebrated in several parts of India" shows "deep historical and cultural links" between both the countries, PM said, "We hope that this festival will further enhance the spirit of peace and tolerance in our respective societies and promote fraternal ties between our two countries."

Lauding the steps taken by Hasina govt to deal with the COVID crisis, PM said he is "confident that Bangladesh will tide over these challenging times."

Adding that India remains "available to support your efforts in any way, including through capacity-building in the health sector."

India in its second tranche of COVID emergency medical supplies to Bangladesh sent 1,00,000 Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) medicine tablets and 50,000 sterile surgical latex gloves. The first tranche consisted of 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head-cover.&nbsp;

Both leaders had spoken to each other on 29th April to discussed the regional situation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday wrote to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Friday sending greeting on the occasion of Eid ul Azha and assuring support for the country's health sector amidst COVID pandemic.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday wrote to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Friday sending greeting on the occasion of Eid ul Azha and assuring support for the country's health sector amidst COVID pandemic. Highlighting that the "festival of Eid ul Azha which is also celebrated in several parts of India" shows "deep historical and cultural links" between both the countries, PM said, "We hope that this festival will further enhance the spirit of peace and tolerance in our respective societies and promote fraternal ties between our two countries." Lauding the steps taken by Hasina govt to deal with the COVID crisis, PM said he is "confident that Bangladesh will tide over these challenging times." Adding that India remains "available to support your efforts in any way, including through capacity-building in the health sector." India in its second tranche of COVID emergency medical supplies to Bangladesh sent 1,00,000 Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) medicine tablets and 50,000 sterile surgical latex gloves. The first tranche consisted of 30,000 surgical masks and 15,000 head-cover. Both leaders had spoken to each other on 29th April to discussed the regional situation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi sends Eid-ul-Azha greetings to Bangladesh PM; assures support on health sector

India will handover 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Bangladesh on Monday, providing the neighbouring country mobility solutions for both intra-country and inter-country movement.

Senior dignitaries from both the countries are expected to flag off the handover, which will be conducted via video conferencing, according to a statement.

The dignitaries include foreign ministers, railways ministers and high commissioners of both the countries, Railway Board chairman and others officials at the local stations on both sides of the border, it said.

The physical location of the handover will be the Gede station of the Eastern Railway in West Bengal's Nadia district and the receiving station of Darshana on the Bangladesh side. 
Bangladesh had sent a proposal to India in April last year for procurement of these locos, with 72 per cent of its present ones already crossing their economic life.

The 3300 HP WDM3D locos being given to Bangladesh have a residual life of 28 years or more and are designed for a speed of 120 kmph. They are suitable for hauling freight as well as passenger trains and have a microprocessor-based control system.

"It will help in movement within Bangladesh as well as inter country movement," the statement said.

"The Railways has modified the locos to suit the maximum height restrictions in BR (Bangladesh Railway)," it said. "We are keen to partner with BR for supply and maintenance of all types of rolling stock."

These locomotives would provide improved train operations within the BR and also for interchange with the Indian Railways, and strengthen the partnership between both the transporters.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India will handover 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Bangladesh on Monday, providing the neighbouring country mobility solutions for both intra-country and inter-country movement.

India will handover 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Bangladesh on Monday, providing the neighbouring country mobility solutions for both intra-country and inter-country movement. Senior dignitaries from both the countries are expected to flag off the handover, which will be conducted via video conferencing, according to a statement. The dignitaries include foreign ministers, railways ministers and high commissioners of both the countries, Railway Board chairman and others officials at the local stations on both sides of the border, it said. The physical location of the handover will be the Gede station of the Eastern Railway in West Bengal's Nadia district and the receiving station of Darshana on the Bangladesh side. Bangladesh had sent a proposal to India in April last year for procurement of these locos, with 72 per cent of its present ones already crossing their economic life. The 3300 HP WDM3D locos being given to Bangladesh have a residual life of 28 years or more and are designed for a speed of 120 kmph. They are suitable for hauling freight as well as passenger trains and have a microprocessor-based control system. "It will help in movement within Bangladesh as well as inter country movement," the statement said. "The Railways has modified the locos to suit the maximum height restrictions in BR (Bangladesh Railway)," it said. "We are keen to partner with BR for supply and maintenance of all types of rolling stock." These locomotives would provide improved train operations within the BR and also for interchange with the Indian Railways, and strengthen the partnership between both the transporters.

India to handover 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Bangladesh

The fears of a strategic encirclement against India are further being fueled by China's actions in the Bay of Bengal. China is building a submarine base in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar region.

Gravitas: Could Bangladesh be the next to fall into China's trap?

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. 
This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. 
 
"During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. 
 
"The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. 
 
The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. 
 
Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. 
 
The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. 
 
Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. 
 
"On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. 
 
After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz&nbsp;Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. 
 
Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. 
 
"Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. 
On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. 
 
"Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. 
 
"Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. "During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. "The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. "On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. "Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. "Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. "Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh allows use of Chattogram, Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India

Cricket fans of India and Bangladesh thronged Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Tuesday to watch their countries take on each other on their road to the semifinals of World Cup. England broke India's undefeated streak in the last match here on the same ground. However, India still sits in a comfortable position in the points-table right below Australia.

Fans throng Edgbaston for India-Bangladesh World Cup clash

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today assured Bangladesh of an &quot;early solution&quot; to the emotive Teesta water sharing issue, a pact on which has remained elusive for nearly seven years.

The two sides inked nearly two dozen pacts in key areas of defence and civil nuclear cooperation after &quot;productive&quot; talks between Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina here.

Modi held extensive discussions with Hasina on ways to strengthen ties between the two countries after which he announced a line of concessional credit of USD 4.5 billion for implementation of projects in Bangladesh.

Announcing an additional line of credit of USD 500 million to Bangladesh for military supplies, Modi said it will be driven by the requirement of that country.

However, the much-delayed pact on Teesta water sharing remained elusive for the two sides. Stressing that the deal was &quot;important&quot; for India-Bangladesh ties, Modi assured India&#39;s commitment to the issue.

He said an &quot;early solution can and will be found&quot; to the Teesta water sharing issue.

The Teesta deal was set to be signed during the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh&#39;s visit to Bangladesh in September, 2011 but was postponed at the last minute due to objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Teesta water is crucial for Bangladesh especially in the leanest period from December to March when the water flow often temporarily comes down to less than 1,000 cusecs from 5,000 cusecs. 
 
(PTI)

 
&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh inked nearly two dozen pacts in key areas of defence and civil nuclear cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today assured Bangladesh of an "early solution" to the emotive Teesta water sharing issue, a pact on which has remained elusive for nearly seven years. The two sides inked nearly two dozen pacts in key areas of defence and civil nuclear cooperation after "productive" talks between Modi and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina here. Modi held extensive discussions with Hasina on ways to strengthen ties between the two countries after which he announced a line of concessional credit of USD 4.5 billion for implementation of projects in Bangladesh. Announcing an additional line of credit of USD 500 million to Bangladesh for military supplies, Modi said it will be driven by the requirement of that country. However, the much-delayed pact on Teesta water sharing remained elusive for the two sides. Stressing that the deal was "important" for India-Bangladesh ties, Modi assured India's commitment to the issue. He said an "early solution can and will be found" to the Teesta water sharing issue. The Teesta deal was set to be signed during the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Bangladesh in September, 2011 but was postponed at the last minute due to objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Teesta water is crucial for Bangladesh especially in the leanest period from December to March when the water flow often temporarily comes down to less than 1,000 cusecs from 5,000 cusecs. (PTI)

PM Modi assures Bangladesh PM of solution to Teesta water sharing issue, pact still elusive

A dominant India remained in pursuit of a comprehensive victory after Bangladesh finished the penultimate day at a precarious 103 for three, chasing a mammoth target of 459 in the one-off Test here.

Rather than looking at the improbable task of scoring the remaining 356 runs, the visitors will try to stay afloat for minimum 90 overs on the fifth and final day and save the game.

Despite the benign nature of the track, India&rsquo;s bowling attack has firepower to get the remaining seven wickets.

Ajinkya Rahane&rsquo;s sharp one-handed catch off Ravindra Jadeja to dismiss a well-set Soumya Sarkar (42) put India in the driver&rsquo;s seat after the visitors looked comfortable during the post-tea session as they started their second innings.

Sarkar, along with Mominul Haque (27), had added 60 runs for the second wicket before the lanky left-hander poked at a Jadeja delivery that didn&rsquo;t turn much. The resultant edge was dipping down but Rahane showed fantastic reflexes to pull off a one-handed catch.

With the momentum broken, Ashwin then had Mominul deceived by the drift. The batsman pushed at a delivery, which turned a shade away to take the leading edge and present Rahane with another catch, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 75 for three.

Ashwin (2/34 in 16 overs), who completed the fastest 250 Test wickets, gave a better account of himself in the second innings by getting the turn and the drift. Being given the new ball helped him get some bounce off the pitch as well.

The pitch is still not offering a great deal of turn to the spinners, and had no hand in the wickets that Bangladesh lost in the second innings.

Seasoned Shakib Al Hasan (21 batting), along with Mahmudullah Riyadh (9 batting) and Mushfiqur Rahim, will need to bring their &lsquo;A&rsquo; game to the fore in order to save the game.

In the post-lunch session, Cheteshwar Pujara scored a quickfire half-century as India declared their second innings at 159 for four at the stroke of tea, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting target.

Pujara smashed 54 off 58 balls while skipper Virat Kohli contributed 38 off only 40 deliveries after having bowled out Bangladesh for 388 in their first innings.

A cushion of 299 was good enough for the hosts to go for the jugular even though openers Murali Vijay (7) and KL Rahul (10) were dismissed in quick succession by Taskin Ahmed (2/43).

But Pujara and Kohli upped the ante with an aim to have a a go at Bangladesh on the fourth day itself.

During their 67-run partnership, Pujara, surprisingly, was the aggressor even as Kohli scored at a quick pace.

Using Taskin&rsquo;s pace to his advantage, Pujara hooked him behind the square for a six.&nbsp;

Kohli was not one to be left behind as he lofted Shakib effortlessly for a six over long-on.

(PTI)

India's spin duo of Ashwin and Jadeja took three wickets between them on fourth day of the Test as Bangladesh were given 459-run target

A dominant India remained in pursuit of a comprehensive victory after Bangladesh finished the penultimate day at a precarious 103 for three, chasing a mammoth target of 459 in the one-off Test here. Rather than looking at the improbable task of scoring the remaining 356 runs, the visitors will try to stay afloat for minimum 90 overs on the fifth and final day and save the game. Despite the benign nature of the track, India’s bowling attack has firepower to get the remaining seven wickets. Ajinkya Rahane’s sharp one-handed catch off Ravindra Jadeja to dismiss a well-set Soumya Sarkar (42) put India in the driver’s seat after the visitors looked comfortable during the post-tea session as they started their second innings. Sarkar, along with Mominul Haque (27), had added 60 runs for the second wicket before the lanky left-hander poked at a Jadeja delivery that didn’t turn much. The resultant edge was dipping down but Rahane showed fantastic reflexes to pull off a one-handed catch. With the momentum broken, Ashwin then had Mominul deceived by the drift. The batsman pushed at a delivery, which turned a shade away to take the leading edge and present Rahane with another catch, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 75 for three. Ashwin (2/34 in 16 overs), who completed the fastest 250 Test wickets, gave a better account of himself in the second innings by getting the turn and the drift. Being given the new ball helped him get some bounce off the pitch as well. The pitch is still not offering a great deal of turn to the spinners, and had no hand in the wickets that Bangladesh lost in the second innings. Seasoned Shakib Al Hasan (21 batting), along with Mahmudullah Riyadh (9 batting) and Mushfiqur Rahim, will need to bring their ‘A’ game to the fore in order to save the game. In the post-lunch session, Cheteshwar Pujara scored a quickfire half-century as India declared their second innings at 159 for four at the stroke of tea, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting target. Pujara smashed 54 off 58 balls while skipper Virat Kohli contributed 38 off only 40 deliveries after having bowled out Bangladesh for 388 in their first innings. A cushion of 299 was good enough for the hosts to go for the jugular even though openers Murali Vijay (7) and KL Rahul (10) were dismissed in quick succession by Taskin Ahmed (2/43). But Pujara and Kohli upped the ante with an aim to have a a go at Bangladesh on the fourth day itself. During their 67-run partnership, Pujara, surprisingly, was the aggressor even as Kohli scored at a quick pace. Using Taskin’s pace to his advantage, Pujara hooked him behind the square for a six. Kohli was not one to be left behind as he lofted Shakib effortlessly for a six over long-on. (PTI)

Bangladesh stare at defeat after India set mammoth target