DHAKA: Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar on Monday (July 26) highlighted the depth of time tested India-Bangladesh ties, based on mutual trust and respect. 

He was addressing a virtual programme as India on Monday handed over 10 broad-gauge diesel locomotives to Bangladesh.

The locomotives were virtually flagged off to Bangladesh by Dr S Jaishankar and the Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal.

Dr S Jaishankar expressed happiness that the COVID pandemic had not slowed down the pace of bilateral cooperation and conveyed that he looked forward to more such milestones in the ongoing historic Mujib Barsho.

Minister of Railways and Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal underscored the significance of railway cooperation in enhancing bilateral trade and connectivity and in further boosting the economic partnership between the two countries.

In the recent times, India and Bangladesh have stepped up their rail cooperation in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as trade via land border faced disruptions.

Rail as a cost effective and environmental friendly solution, has helped in transporting essential commodities across the border. Both sides saw the highest ever exchange of freight trains in the month of June. 

A total of 103 freight trains were utilized for carrying essential
commodities and raw materials.

Recently, parcel and container train services have also commenced between India and Bangladesh. This is expected to significantly enhance the scope of bilateral trade.

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen thanked India for offering Bangladesh 10 broad gauge diesel locomotives as a mark of enduring friendship. 

This is in line with the commitment by New Delhi during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to India last October and renewed focus on ”neighbourhood first” policy of Modi, he added. 

Railways Minister of Bangladesh Nurul Islam Sujan, Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das also joined the event. 

BDST: 1745 HRS, JUL 27, 2020
SMS