Bangladesh–India Relations: Strengthening Historical Ties

Abstract

In a fast-emerging multipolar Asia, and in the fast-shifting geopolitics of the area where ostensive national interests are being pursued with growing military-driven intensity, enhancing strategic ties between close and historic neighbours like Bangladesh and India has assumed greater urgency. The region also faces major socio-economic challenges, which were exposed brutally by the Coronavirus pandemic and its effects on lives and livelihood. In such a backdrop, forging closer relations, including enhancing multi-modal and multi-faceted connectivity between the two countries, warrants heightened priority. I strongly believe that Bangladesh and India are best placed to set an example of how increased connectivity in multifarious areas between neighbours and peoples can be immensely and mutually beneficial.