Bangladesh is committed to maintaining positive and balanced diplomatic and bilateral relations with neighboring India while safeguarding its national interests, newly appointed State Minister for Foreign Affairs and former Prime Minister’s foreign affairs adviser Humayun Kabir has said.

Speaking to reporters after paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Ashulia, Savar, on Saturday (August 22), Humayun Kabir outlined the government’s position on foreign policy and a possible visit to India.

Humayun Kabir said, “Over the past few months, a new strategic framework has been developed in Bangladesh’s foreign policy under the leadership of the Prime Minister. We are maintaining balanced bilateral relations with everyone, including Washington, Beijing and the countries of the Middle East. The highest priority in this regard is being given to Bangladesh’s national interests.”

Responding to a question about bringing back former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was sentenced to death in a crimes against humanity case, and other fugitives currently staying in India, he said, “Bringing Sheikh Hasina and other fugitives staying in India back to the country is an ongoing process. Bangladesh has an extradition treaty with India, and judicial proceedings against them are ongoing in the country. This is a long-standing expectation and a legitimate demand of the people of Bangladesh.”

Regarding a possible visit to India, the state minister said, “Discussions and diplomatic communication with India are continuing. However, there is no hurry regarding the visit. Before any high-level meeting, the necessary preparations and groundwork must be completed. The visit will take place at the appropriate time based on the progress of discussions.”

On bilateral relations, he said, “There will be no compromise with anyone at the expense of the sentiments of the people of Bangladesh or the national interest. The government is working to maintain good relations with the neighboring country, and India has also come to understand the sentiments of the people of Bangladesh.”

He further said, “This government, formed with an overwhelming public mandate, is committed to taking Bangladesh to a more important position in terms of soft power, regional influence and international mediation. Our goal is to further strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a responsible and influential state on the global stage.”