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Enhanced cooperation between India and Bangladesh augurs well for our peoples as well as progress of both countries: PM Modi

Published By : Admin | September 10, 2018 | 18:19 IST
QuotePM Modi, PM Hasina of Bangladesh jointly inaugurate two railway projects and a power link
QuoteRailway projects between India and Bangladesh to boost trade and connectivity
QuoteIndia to supply an additional 500MW power to Bangladesh, through the existing Bheramara-Baharampur interconnection
QuoteEnhanced cooperation between India and Bangladesh augurs well for our peoples as well as progress of both countries: PM Modi

Your Excellency Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh,

Foreign Minister of India and Bangladesh,

Ms. Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal,

Shri Biplab Kumar Deb, Chief Minister of Tripura,

A few days ago, I met Sheikh Hasinaji at the BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu. Before that, we also met at Shantiniketan in May and in London during the Commonwealth Summit in April.

I am glad that today once again I have got the opportunity to interact with you through this video conference.

I have stressed upon the fact several times before that the relationship with the neighboring countries must be like that of close neighbors. We may talk or visit one another whenever we feel like. We must not be tied to protocols for these things.

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I can clearly see this intimacy in the relationship with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinaji. Apart from the several meetings, this is our fourth video conference and one more video conference will be organized in the near future.

The most important thing about these video conferences is that the inaugurations of the joint projects of the two countries do not require VIP visits.

Excellency, whenever we talk of connectivity, I always feel like restoring your vision of connectivity prior to 1965. I am extremely delighted to say that we have been taking steps in this direction since the last few years.

Today we have enhanced our power connectivity and we have started two projects to deepen the railway connectivity.

When I visited Bangladesh in 2015, we decided to supply 500 megawatt of additional power to Bangladesh. Thus, the transmission link from Bangladesh is being used in West Bengal for this. I congratulate the Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee for supporting this work.

With the completion of this project, 1.16 gigawatts power is being supplied to Bangladesh from India. I believe that this quantum leap to gigawatt from megawatt is a symbol of the golden chapter of our relationships.

Our connectivity is also improving in the field of railways. The key aspects of our cooperation include internal connectivity of Bangladesh and connectivity with India.

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Once the connectivity of Akhaura-Agartala is completed, another link will be added to our cross-border connectivity. I congratulate Chief Minister Mr. Biplab Kumar Deb for his cooperation in this project.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinaji has set ambitious targets for the development of Bangladesh i.e. becoming a Middle Income country by 2021 and a developed country by 2041. It a matter of great pride for us to support and help them to realize this vision.

I have complete faith that as we enhance our relations and strengthen relationships between people, we will touch new heights of growth and prosperity.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and the Chief Ministers of West Bengal and Tripura for supporting this work and attending today's programme.

Thank you.

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PM Modi’s remarks during the BRICS session: Peace and Security
July 06, 2025

Friends,

Global peace and security are not just ideals, rather they are the foundation of our shared interests and future. Progress of humanity is possible only in a peaceful and secure environment. BRICS has a very important role in fulfilling this objective. It is time for us to come together, unite our efforts, and collectively address the challenges we all face. We must move forward together.

Friends,

Terrorism is the most serious challenge facing humanity today. India recently endured a brutal and cowardly terrorist attack. The terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22nd April was a direct assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of India. This attack was not just a blow to India but to the entire humanity. In this hour of grief and sorrow, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the friendly countries who stood with us and expressed support and condolences.

Condemning terrorism must be a matter of principle, and not just of convenience. If our response depends on where or against whom the attack occurred, it shall be a betrayal of humanity itself.

Friends,

There must be no hesitation in imposing sanctions on terrorists. The victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be treated equally. For the sake of personal or political gain, giving silent consent to terrorism or supporting terrorists or terrorism, should never be acceptable under any circumstances. There should be no difference between our words and actions when it comes to terrorism. If we cannot do this, then the question naturally arises whether we are serious about fighting terrorism or not?

Friends,

Today, from West Asia to Europe, the whole world is surrounded by disputes and tensions. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a cause of grave concern. India firmly believes that no matter how difficult the circumstances, the path of peace is the only option for the good of humanity.

India is the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. We have no place for war and violence. India supports every effort that takes the world away from division and conflict and leads us towards dialogue, cooperation, and coordination; and increases solidarity and trust. In this direction, we are committed to cooperation and partnership with all friendly countries. Thank you.

Friends,

In conclusion, I warmly invite all of you to India next year for the BRICS Summit, which will be held under India’s chairmanship.

Thank you very much.