Sheikh Hasina Emphasises Strengthened Cooperation Between Armies of Bangladesh and India

During a visit by Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande to Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for stronger collaboration between the armies of the two countries, particularly in the realm of international peacekeeping operations. Hasina highlighted the establishment of the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training (BIPSOT) as an opportunity for mutual welfare and exchange of activities. She expressed gratitude for India's support during the 1971 Liberation War and emphasised the need for joint efforts to combat poverty, which she described as the region's main enemy. Despite limitations and limited resources, her government is dedicated to advancing Bangladesh socio-economically.

General Manoj Pande acknowledged the progress in defence industry collaboration between Bangladesh and India and assured continued cooperation in modernising the Bangladesh Army. He stressed the importance of utilising these opportunities for mutual benefit and shared his positive impressions of the modern facilities at the Bangladesh Military Academy in Chattogram. As the chief guest at the passing out ceremony of Bangladesh military's 84th long course, Gen Pande inspected the parade and recognised the exceptional achievements of select cadets from home and abroad.

Prior to this, General Pande held discussions with his Bangladeshi counterpart, General S.M. Shafiuddin Ahmed, to explore existing bilateral ties and future cooperation. He paid tribute to the martyrs of Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War by placing wreaths at the 'Flame Eternal' altar in Dhaka Cantonment. Additionally, a Bangladesh military contingent presented him with an honour guard at the Senakunja area, where he also planted a sapling. General Pande's visit to Bangladesh came five weeks after General Ahmed's visit to India to witness a similar passing out parade at the Officers' Training Academy in Chennai.

The meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and General Manoj Pande reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to strengthen collaboration and explore new avenues of cooperation, particularly in defence and peacekeeping initiatives. The exchange of ideas and the recognition of shared challenges demonstrate the continued efforts of Bangladesh and India to foster mutual welfare and regional development.