HPM Sheikh Hasina emphasizes on sharing coastal security experiences between Bangladesh and Indian Navy

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has put emphasis on sharing experiences between Bangladesh Navy and Indian Navy on ensuring coastal security.

“We can share the expertise of Indian Navy on coastal security,” she said when visiting Chief of Naval Staff of Indian Navy Admiral Sunil Lanba paid a courtesy call on the premier at her official Ganabhaban residence here this evening.

After the meeting, PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters.

Admiral Lanba said the ties between the two navies are growing strongly and “we want to take it forward further”.

He said a number of scopes for cooperation between the two navies have already been created and some cooperation are going on.

The Indian Naval Chief offered further cooperation between the two navies.

Pointing out the peaceful resolution to the maritime dispute between the two countries, he termed it as a “shining example of friendship”.

Mentioning the traditional relationship between the two neighbouring countries, Sheikh Hasina expressed gratitude for the contributions of Indian Armed Forces to Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971.

“Many Indian soldiers laid down their lives in the Liberation War,” she said.

Stressing the need for better relations between neighbours, the prime minister said “we can do many things if cooperation exists.”

While talking about connectivity between Bangladesh and India, Sheikh Hasina said some rail, river and road routes that were closed after the 1965 war have been reopened and some are waiting for resumption.

The premier mentioned the peaceful resolution to land boundary dispute between the two countries and said all political parties of India unanimously supported the bill in Indian parliament to this end setting up a great example of friendship.

Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lt Gen Md Mahfuzur Rahman, PM’s Military Secretary Major General Mia Md Joynul Abedin, PMO Secretary Sajjadul Hassan, Indian High Commissioner Harsha Vardhan Shringla and spouse of the Indian Naval Chief Reena Lanba were present on the occasion.

Admiral Sunil Lanba arrived in Dhaka on Sunday on a six-day goodwill visit at an invitation from Chief of Naval Staff of Bangladesh Navy Admiral Nizamuddin Ahmed.