Northeast India’s Prosperity Surges: India-Bangladesh Relations Flourish

Last Updated on May 1, 2024 3:43 am

In a significant address at Kirori Mal College, New Delhi, India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, underscored the monumental strides in India-Bangladesh relations, particularly benefiting Northeast India. Jaishankar highlighted the pivotal role played by improved ties in reshaping the socio-economic landscape of the region.

Jaishankar emphasized that the natural connectivity of Northeast India was disrupted post-partition, posing developmental challenges. However, concerted efforts by both nations have led to remarkable progress in recent years. The landmark 2015 land border agreement symbolized a paradigm shift, fostering unprecedented trust and cooperation.

Crucially, Jaishankar accentuated the pivotal role of enhanced access to Bangladeshi ports like Chittagong and Mongla in catalyzing regional trade, especially in Northeast India. He described these ports as vital gateways that had been inaccessible due to historical political complexities but now presented lucrative opportunities for economic growth.

The minister also shed light on the transformative India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway project, a testament to India’s commitment to bolstering regional connectivity. Despite challenges, including recent political upheavals in Myanmar, Jaishankar expressed optimism about mitigating border issues and unlocking the region’s potential.

Jaishankar envisioned a future where seamless connectivity through Northeastern Myanmar and southern Bangladesh would invigorate Eastern India’s development, aligning with the Modi government’s objectives of fostering comprehensive growth and infrastructure advancement.

The minister’s remarks underscored a paradigm shift in regional dynamics, where India and Bangladesh are not merely neighbors but strategic partners in driving inclusive growth and fostering regional stability.