Dhaka to discuss 1971 issues during Pak deputy PM’s visit: Foreign Adviser

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister is set to visit Bangladesh on August 23. Bangladesh is prepared to receive him, and Dhaka intends to raise the issues related to the 1971 war during bilateral discussions, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said.

The adviser made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the Foreign Service Academy today.

He said, “There is no new information. Bangladesh has asked India to return Sheikh Hasina to face trial, but there has no positive response yet.”

Hasina left the country on August 5 last year amid widespread student-led uprising. 

Adviser Hossain said the government is awaiting a response from New Delhi and reaffirmed that legal proceedings against the former premier have already commenced in her absence.
 
“The trial is going on. Whether someone appears or not, the judicial process does not stop,” he added.

In response to a question about whether the government would seek international assistance to secure Hasina’s extradition, the Adviser said such measures could be considered if necessary.

“However, at this moment, I do not see any immediate need,” he stated.

Bangladesh had earlier sent a diplomatic note (note verbale) to India in December last year with relevant documents and formally requested India for return of the ousted Prime Minister to face trial.