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Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday that the prevailing situation in Myanmar is a “worrying factor for Bangladesh and India” as both countries share a border with Myanmar.
“So far, until today (Wednesday) as many as 338 people, mostly Myanmar border security guards and army personnel, had entered Bangladesh, and we gave them shelter with consultation to take them back,” he said.
The minister, who is now on a three-day official visit in New Delhi at the invitation of Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, made the comments while responding to media quarries at Press Club of India (PCI) premises this evening.
Dr. Hasan talked to journalists after placing floral wreaths at the portrait of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the “Bangabandhu Media Centre,” set up on the first floor of the club building.
The Bangladesh Ambassador to India, Md. Mustafizur Rahman, PCI President Gautam Lahiri and officials from the Bangladesh High Commission were present on the occasion.
Responding to a number of questions from the media, the foreign minister told journalists that Myanmar authorities have agreed to take back their people (border security guards and army personnel) who took shelter in Bangladesh during a discussion with the Bangladesh envoy in Myanmar.
“Although the Myanmar authorities have agreed to take them back, it is a matter of discussion how they will implement it,” he added.
Asked about his meeting held today with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, the minister said they discussed security issues, including the prevailing situation in Myanmar, for the sake of ensuring peace and security in the region.
Responding to another question, he said relations with India during the last 15 years have been strengthened and reached a newer height under the pragmatic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.
He said economic cooperation, connectivity, and people-to-people contact are the important components for ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Later, Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud held a bilateral meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar at Hyderabad House this evening.
“Welcome to India, FM Dr. Hasan Mahmud of Bangladesh...Our discussions today will strengthen India-Bangladesh Maitri,” Jaishankar posted on the “X” previously Tweeter prior to holding a bilateral meeting.