Bangladesh Responds to Jaishankar’s Remarks, Calls for Clarity in Relations

Bangladesh has responded to Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s statement, asserting that India should not be concerned about the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi government has also urged India to clarify its stance on bilateral relations. Jaishankar had earlier stated that Bangladesh should define the kind of relationship it seeks with India.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, Mohammad Tauheed Hussain, a foreign affairs adviser in Bangladesh’s interim government, addressed Jaishankar’s remarks, stating:

🔹 Minority Issues Should Not Concern India

• “Jaishankar has once again brought up the issue of minorities. However, this issue has mainly been exaggerated due to distorted information in the Indian media.”
• “The most important thing is that minority issues in Bangladesh should not be a matter of concern for India. Just as India’s treatment of its minorities is its internal matter, Bangladesh’s handling of its minorities is our own concern.”

🔹 Non-Interference Policy

• “In such a situation, I believe the policy of non-interference should be followed.”
• “The government of Bangladesh ensures that all citizens, including minorities, have equal rights, and we are actively addressing their concerns.”

🔹 Clarification on Bilateral Relations

• “Bangladesh will certainly determine the kind of relationship it wants with India, just as India should also define its stance toward Bangladesh.”
• “This is a matter for both countries to decide, and there is no harm in discussing it openly.”
• “Our position is clear—we seek a good relationship with India based on mutual respect and shared interests.”

🔹 Concerns Over Anti-Bangladesh Statements
Tauheed Hussain also addressed statements made by Indian officials, highlighting concerns over their impact on bilateral relations:

• “Some Indian leaders have made remarks that increase tensions.”
• “One of their Chief Ministers even suggested sending a UN Peacekeeping Force to Bangladesh, and a Union Minister frequently makes anti-Bangladesh comments.”
• “Despite this, we remain committed to maintaining strong relations with India.”

🔹 Issue of Sheikh Hasina and Political Influence

• “Rather than focusing on isolated statements from both sides, efforts should be made to strengthen ties.”
• “To improve relations, India should also consider the impact of statements made by our former Prime Minister, who is currently in India.”
• “Such statements are increasing tensions, and it is our responsibility to handle any instability in our country.”
• “It is clear that these remarks are affecting our relations, and everyone is aware of this.”

Conclusion

Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to strong relations with India but has urged non-interference in its internal matters. It has also called for mutual respect in diplomatic engagements and expressed concerns over inflammatory statements from Indian politicians.