India Sends Major Signal to Bangladesh: ‘We Want a Future-Oriented Partnership’
- Update Time : 03:46:39 pm, Tuesday, 18 August 2026
- / 10 Time View

India has reaffirmed its interest in building a positive, constructive, and future-oriented relationship with Bangladesh, signaling a willingness to deepen cooperation despite ongoing discussions on several sensitive bilateral issues.
Speaking at a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi remains committed to advancing ties based on mutual interests and mutual benefit.
India Reiterates Invitation to Bangladeshi Prime Minister
Addressing questions about a possible visit by Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Jaiswal confirmed that India’s invitation remains open.
He said New Delhi has extended a cordial invitation and will provide updates if there are any developments regarding the visit.
While no official date has been announced, the comments suggest both sides continue to keep diplomatic channels active as discussions on broader bilateral relations continue.
No Change in India’s Position on Extradition Request
Jaiswal was also asked about Bangladesh’s request concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
He stated that India’s position remains unchanged and that any extradition-related request is reviewed through established legal and procedural mechanisms.
The spokesperson emphasized that such matters are handled according to standard processes rather than political considerations.
Energy Cooperation Still Under Review
On reports that Bangladesh has requested additional fuel supplies, Jaiswal said energy cooperation between the two neighbors continues.
However, he noted that any decision on increased fuel exports would depend on factors including:
- India’s domestic demand
- Refining capacity
- Overall fuel availability
Officials are reportedly reviewing the request within those parameters.
Teesta and Water-Sharing Issues
Responding to questions regarding the Teesta River water-sharing issue, Jaiswal highlighted that India and Bangladesh share 54 transboundary rivers.
He said water-related matters should continue to be addressed through the Joint Rivers Commission and other established bilateral mechanisms.
A Relationship at a Critical Moment
The latest remarks come at a time when both countries are navigating a range of political, economic, and strategic issues.
Analysts say India’s emphasis on a “future-oriented” partnership reflects an effort to maintain stability in one of South Asia’s most important bilateral relationships while keeping dialogue open on areas of disagreement.
Despite unresolved issues, both governments continue to publicly express interest in expanding cooperation in trade, energy, connectivity, water management, and regional security.
India has reaffirmed its interest in building a positive, constructive, and future-oriented relationship with Bangladesh, signaling a willingness to deepen cooperation despite ongoing discussions on several sensitive bilateral issues.
Speaking at a weekly media briefing in New Delhi, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi remains committed to advancing ties based on mutual interests and mutual benefit.
India Reiterates Invitation to Bangladeshi Prime Minister
Addressing questions about a possible visit by Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Jaiswal confirmed that India’s invitation remains open.
He said New Delhi has extended a cordial invitation and will provide updates if there are any developments regarding the visit.
While no official date has been announced, the comments suggest both sides continue to keep diplomatic channels active as discussions on broader bilateral relations continue.
No Change in India’s Position on Extradition Request
Jaiswal was also asked about Bangladesh’s request concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
He stated that India’s position remains unchanged and that any extradition-related request is reviewed through established legal and procedural mechanisms.
The spokesperson emphasized that such matters are handled according to standard processes rather than political considerations.
Energy Cooperation Still Under Review
On reports that Bangladesh has requested additional fuel supplies, Jaiswal said energy cooperation between the two neighbors continues.
However, he noted that any decision on increased fuel exports would depend on factors including:
- India’s domestic demand
- Refining capacity
- Overall fuel availability
Officials are reportedly reviewing the request within those parameters.
Teesta and Water-Sharing Issues
Responding to questions regarding the Teesta River water-sharing issue, Jaiswal highlighted that India and Bangladesh share 54 transboundary rivers.
He said water-related matters should continue to be addressed through the Joint Rivers Commission and other established bilateral mechanisms.
A Relationship at a Critical Moment
The latest remarks come at a time when both countries are navigating a range of political, economic, and strategic issues.
Analysts say India’s emphasis on a “future-oriented” partnership reflects an effort to maintain stability in one of South Asia’s most important bilateral relationships while keeping dialogue open on areas of disagreement.
Despite unresolved issues, both governments continue to publicly express interest in expanding cooperation in trade, energy, connectivity, water management, and regional security.
























