DHAKA, Dec 8, 2024 (BSS) - Dhaka is Optimistic to have a fruitful discussion 
with Delhi as Bangladesh and India is set to have foreign secretary-level 
Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) amid ongoing strained relations between the 
neighbours. 

"I hope the foreign secretaries will have a productive discussion," said 
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain while addressing a discussion 
titled "SAARC: People of South Asia Crave for Cooperation" at the Jatiya 
Press Club here today.

Hossain acknowledged that relations between the two countries have faced 
changes since August 5, 2024 and emphasized the importance of mutual efforts 
to navigate the "changed reality".

He expressed hope that both nations could overcome the recent stalemate 
through dialogue.

"We expect to overcome this impasse. Mutual communication and regular 
engagement are crucial to resolving any deadlock," Hossain said.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on 
Monday for the FOC where he will meet his Bangladeshi counterpart Foreign 
Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin. 

The two sides are set to discuss key issues including trade, visas, 
connectivity, border killings, water-sharing, and other matters of mutual 
concern.

The foreign adviser highlighted the recent slowdown in bilateral trade, 
noting that traders in both countries, including those in Kolkata, have felt 
the impact. 

"We hope the standoff will be resolved soon," Hossain added, stressing the 
need for dialogue based on reciprocity.

Earlier while interacting with the media last week, Touhid said, "It is very 
clear that we want a good relationship (with India)."
 
However, the foreign adviser emphasized that relations between Bangladesh and 
India must be built on a reciprocal basis. "Both sides need to want that and 
should work for it," he added.

On Thursday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam stated that 
preparations for the high-level consultations had been coordinated through an 
inter-ministerial meeting.

Alam noted that the agenda might include a range of bilateral issues, 
including trade and regional connectivity, while also addressing speculation 
about the possible extradition of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, 
who fled to India in August.

The Foreign Ministry's earlier briefing suggested that the matter could come 
up during discussions.

The upcoming consultations are expected to underscore the commitment of both 
nations to strengthen ties despite current challenges.