Tawhid Hossain, the newly appointed Foreign Affairs Advisor of the Interim Government, emphasized the importance of closing the gap between the Bangladeshi people and India, despite the strong ties between the two governments. He underscored the need for fostering a public perception in Bangladesh that India is a close and trusted ally.
During his first media briefing on Sunday evening, Hossain stated that if the Law Ministry requested the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh, the Foreign Ministry would formally communicate with the Indian government. This interaction marked his initial engagement with the press in his new capacity.
The briefing began with a minute of silence to honor those who lost their lives during the student-led anti-discrimination protests.
Responding to a question about the “golden era” of Bangladesh-India relations, Hossain remarked, “While the relationship between the two governments has been very close, I question how much this sentiment was shared by the general populace. We intend to strengthen this relationship not only at the governmental level but also among the people of both nations. Our goal is to ensure that Bangladeshis view India as a close friend, and we seek India’s cooperation in achieving this. We do not wish to have strained relations with any country.”
Hossain highlighted the interim government’s priority of maintaining balanced international relations, stating, “It would be inaccurate to depict this government as favoring any particular direction. We are committed to fostering positive relationships with all nations, including India, China, the United States, and countries in East and Southeast Asia.”
He also noted that the United Nations had expressed its willingness to support the interim government in any way possible. “We are receiving positive signals from various quarters as we work to strengthen our international relationships,” Hossain added.
Addressing concerns from friendly nations, Hossain stated, “The concerns expressed by our allies are indeed our own. The government will place significant emphasis on upholding human rights.”
Regarding the issue of Saint Martin’s Island, Hossain clarified that there was no agreement to hand it over to the United States, as suggested by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. “I have not made any such commitment,” he affirmed, adding that the protesting students did not make such a commitment either.
On the potential return of Sheikh Hasina from India, Hossain said that the Foreign Ministry would contact India if directed by the Law Ministry. “Whether Sheikh Hasina returns or not is beyond my purview. However, if instructed by the Law Ministry to facilitate her return, I will send the necessary communication to India,” he explained.
Responding to inquiries about Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, Hossain confirmed that an advisors’ meeting had affirmed her resignation and that the letter had been submitted to the President.
Hossain acknowledged the concerns surrounding the current political situation and expressed confidence that stability would soon be restored. He also addressed recent international reports on violence against minorities, acknowledging that some incidents, including attacks on Hindu households, had occurred. However, he clarified that these acts were politically, not religiously, motivated. “Such violence is unacceptable under any circumstances,” he stated.
Hossain concluded by announcing that the Chief Advisor would meet with representatives of minority communities on Monday to discuss these issues. “We have requested detailed information on these incidents, and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice, regardless of their political affiliations,” he assured.
