DHAKA: Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Monday raised the issue of the extradition of exiled Awami League leader and ex-PM Sheikh Hasina with Indian high commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, emphasising that Dhaka was hopeful of a positive response, while cautioning India against "actions" that could hurt bilateral ties.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
Briefing reporters, foreign minister Khalilur Rahman, who was present at the "courtesy meeting", said Bangladesh wants all countries to respect the entire structure of the State, adding that "I believe India has understood Bangladesh's concerns". PM Tarique's advice that India should avoid actions that can hit ties was being seen as referring to Hasina's defiant virtual news conference last week in Delhi. "What Hasina did on Aug 5 was...she showed disrespect to the judiciary, one of the pillars of the State... and the Indian govt allowed that (news conference) to happen," said Khalilur.
"My impression, after speaking with them, is that they have understood it. We hope they will not do anything to undermine any pillar of our State again. This is our expectation, and based on my conversations with them, I am somewhat reassured that this incident will not be repeated," he further said of the Aug 5 presser by Hasina.
In a statement, Bangladesh PM's office said the meeting between Tarique and Trivedi also "covered a range of important bilateral issues". The Indian high commission in Dhaka said Trivedi conveyed greetings from PM Narendra Modi and "the intent to work together with govt and people of Bangladesh in a positive, constructive and forward-looking manner."
Bangladesh has also urged "India to hand over the suspected killers of Osman Hadi as early as possible", said Khalilur. In March, West Bengal Police arrested two Bangladeshis accused of his murder in the Indian town of Bongaon.
Meanwhile, RAW chief Parag Jain arrived in Dhaka Sunday, reportedly as part of efforts to normalise ties between the two countries.
