Dhaka, New Delhi not starting from zero: Foreign Minister to NDTV

Bangladesh and India are not starting their relationship from scratch but building on deep-rooted historical, cultural and geographical ties, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has said.

In an interview with NDTV—his first with Indian media since the new government led by Tarique Rahman took office—he said bilateral ties are progressing “slowly but surely” based on mutual trust and engagement.

Rahman noted that both sides are working to normalise relations through dialogue and cooperation, stressing the need for patience rather than haste.

He highlighted energy cooperation as a key area, saying India has been responsive during times of crisis. “We have a pipeline, and India is supplying diesel to Bangladesh,” he said, adding that Dhaka has recently requested increased supply.

The minister also pointed to the upcoming review of the 1996 Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, emphasising the need for fair and climate-resilient water management. “Water is limited, and livelihoods on both sides depend on shared rivers,” he said.

On broader regional dynamics, Rahman said Bangladesh does not view its foreign policy as a zero-sum game, noting that relations with other countries, including China, should not be seen as a concern.

He underscored the importance of economic complementarity, cross-border connectivity and joint infrastructure, saying the benefits of cooperation must reach people in both countries.

“India is not an external partner, but a structural presence for Bangladesh,” he added.

Khalilur Rahman recently visited Delhi, where he held talks with senior officials, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He later gave the interview to NDTV on the sidelines of a separate event in Mauritius.