The key area of focus in the India-Bangladesh relationship

Source: The post the key area of focus in the India-Bangladesh relationship has been created, based on the article “India-Bangladesh ties: A shared vision” published in “Indian express” on 24th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-international relations-India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Context: The article discusses the strong relationship between India and Bangladesh, led by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hasina. They have met frequently to enhance their countries’ partnership, focusing on improving trade, defense, and regional cooperation. They aim to address remaining challenges and strengthen their bond further.

For detailed information on India-Bangladesh relationship read this article here

What have India and Bangladesh achieved in bilateral relations?

Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh have strengthened their countries’ relationship significantly. They have met 10 times over the past year, emphasizing the importance of their partnership. Their efforts are described as a “golden chapter” in the history of bilateral relations between the two nations.

What are the key areas of focus?

1. Easing Visa Procedures and Freer Movement of Goods: The countries plan to simplify visa processes to support easier and more frequent travel. They also aim to enhance the free movement of goods across borders.
2. Cross-border Energy and Electricity Flows: There is a focus on facilitating energy exchange, which includes the flow of electricity across the border to ensure mutual energy security and integration.
3. Building Digital Bridges: The efforts to create digital connections that will likely support advancements in technology and communication between the two nations.
4. Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): India and Bangladesh intend to commence negotiations on a CEPA to encourage free trade. This is particularly important given the breakdown of the global trading order, positioning the partnership as a regional economic imperative.
5. Defense Modernization: Plans to modernize bilateral defense ties involve collaboration between armed forces and supporting Dhaka’s military modernization, contributing to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

What challenges remain?

1. River Water Management: Despite significant progress in bilateral relations, the management of river water remains a challenge. This issue is critical as it affects agriculture and livelihoods in both countries.
2. Unfinished Connectivity Agenda: The ongoing efforts to ease visa procedures and enable freer movement of goods and energy are crucial for seamless cross-border interaction but have yet to be fully realized.
3. Negotiations on Economic Partnership: The long overdue negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) have yet to commence, which is essential for enhancing trade and economic integration between India and Bangladesh.

Question for practice:

Discuss the recent advancements and remaining challenges in the bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh.