Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has started a two-day State visit to India with the goal of enhancing the strong relationship between the two countries. During her visit, she will engage in extensive talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and connectivity.
This visit marks the first bilateral State visit since the formation of India's new government after the recent Lok Sabha elections. Hasina was among seven prominent leaders from neighboring countries and the Indian Ocean region who attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 9.
On Saturday, Hasina and Modi will discuss a wide range of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation across various sectors. Besides meeting Modi, Hasina will also have meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. She is also scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
According to a source, the primary focus of the discussions between the two prime ministers will be to elevate bilateral ties to new heights. The strategic relationship between India and Bangladesh has significantly grown in recent years.
Bangladesh is a key partner for India under its "Neighbourhood First" policy, with collaborations in security, trade, commerce, energy, connectivity, science and technology, defense, and maritime affairs. Notable achievements in connectivity include the Maitri Setu bridge over the Feni River in Tripura and the revival of the Chilahati-Haldibari rail link.
As India's largest development partner, Bangladesh accounts for nearly one-fourth of New Delhi's commitments under the Line of Credit. Bangladesh is also India's top trading partner in South Asia, with India being its second-largest trading partner in Asia. India is the leading destination for Bangladeshi exports in Asia, with exports to India reaching approximately USD 2 billion in 2022-23. The total bilateral trade for 2022-23 was USD 15.9 billion.
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