Bangladesh and India have agreed on the need to reset and advance their bilateral relationship based on sovereign equality and mutual interests, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman said on Thursday after holding his first courtesy meeting with India's newly appointed High Commissioner.

Speaking to reporters at the Foreign Ministry, Rahman said the two sides exchanged views on improving overall ties rather than discussing specific bilateral issues. He acknowledged that some "irritants" remained in the relationship and stressed the importance of addressing them, according to BSS.

On India's invitation for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, the minister said the government was reviewing the invitation alongside the premier's other international commitments and would announce its decision in due course.

Rahman also confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, would soon visit Bangladesh on what he described as an "exploratory" trip. The envoy is expected to meet government officials, other stakeholders, and visit the Rohingya refugee camps.

Rejecting suggestions that Bangladesh's growing engagement with China could affect ties with other partners, the foreign minister said Dhaka's foreign policy was "not a zero-sum game" and that the country would continue strengthening relations with all nations in line with its national interests.

Separately, Indian High Commissioner Trivedi described his meeting with Rahman as "very good" and said he looked forward to expanding cooperation based on mutual benefit and stronger people-to-people ties, including in culture, music and cricket. He also met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam.

 

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