Dhaka, Feb 11: Bangladesh and India have agreed to strengthen the relations between the two countries by enhancing trade and cultural ties. The two nations also agreed to resolve all problems bilaterally through discussions. The agreement came when newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Khaleda Zia at her office yesterday. Zia recalled her fruitful meeting with Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee during the SAARC summit in Islamabad and said it had taken the relationship to new heights. Continued contacts in various sectors and hard work are required to maintain and carry forward the good relationship, she said.

The Bagladesh PM emphasised on the need for dialogue between the two sides and exchange of delegations at different levels between the two countries.

Referring to the possibility of increased exports from Bangladesh, Veena Sikri lauded the standard of Bangladesh products and said there was a demand for these goods in India.

She said there are many items, which could be exchanged under the bilateral agreement in the light of Sapta. She also invited Bangladesh to participate in the New Delhi trade fair to be held in November.

Evincing keen interest in the possibility of Indian investment in Bangladesh, Sikri mentioned the scope of re-export.

PM Zia also reiterated her invitation to the Indian Prime Minister to visit Bangladesh

Bureau Report