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By Tanzim Anwar

DHAKA, Nov 20, 2024 (BSS) – Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to visit Dhaka in mid December to lead the Indian delegation at the next round of Bangladesh-India Foreign Office Consultation (FOC), signaling efforts to normalize bilateral relations between the two neighboring nations.

“I believe we (Dhaka-Delhi) are advancing towards normal (bilateral) relations, and the FOC will be the first step in that direction,” Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain told BSS at the foreign ministry this evening.

He expressed optimism that Dhaka and New Delhi could move forward pragmatically and realistically to restore ties to a “completely normal” state.

“We consider our relationship with India important for us, and I believe it is equally important for India to maintain good relations with Bangladesh” he said, noting that both sides have demonstrated their commitment to repairing bilateral ties.

The advisor acknowledged the challenges in the current political climate, stating, “There may be a few hiccups — it’s normal. Hiccups happen when there are significant changes. We aim to create a good working relationship by overcoming these issues for the benefit of both sides.”

Asked about the complexities of improving ties when ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina residing in India, Hossain noted that the process would be easier for both Bangladesh and India if she were no longer in the neighboring country.

Relations between Bangladesh and India, once heralded as a "golden chapter," have been strained since Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister amid a student-led uprising and her subsequent stay in India.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Md. Jasim Uddin will lead the country’s delegation at the FOC, which traditionally includes senior officials from key ministries such as home, commerce, water resources, and food.

During his visit, Misri is expected to pay a courtesy call on Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor.

The last annual FOC was held in New Delhi on November 24, 2023.