Attacks on religious institutions regrettable', India tells Bangladesh

FOREIGN SECY MISRI ON A DAY-LONG VISIT TO DHAKA

- SIMONTINI BHATTACHARJEE

NEW DELHI: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Monday that he conveyed New Delhi's concerns to Dhaka over the attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. In a meeting with Bangladeshi Foreign Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain, Misri expressed that the attacks on religious institutions and places of worship were "regrettable."

The Foreign Secretary also conveyed to Bangladesh's interim government that India wishes to have a "positive, constructive, and mutually beneficial" relationship.

Speaking to the media after his high-level meeting, Misri said, "I have underlined today India's desire to work closely with the interim government of Bangladesh."

Regarding the issue of minorities, Misri said, "We discussed recent developments, and I conveyed our concerns, including those related to the safety and welfare of minorities. We also discussed the regrettable incidents of attacks on cultural and religious properties."

Calling the discussions "frank, candid, and constructive," Misri said the discussions provided both sides with "the opportunity to take stock of our ties."

Misri emphasised India's unwavering support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh.

He reiterated India’s commitment to fostering a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh, grounded in mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity to each other’s concerns and interests.