India's partnership with Bangladesh must benefit the common people on both sides: Pranay Verma

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma has said they strongly believe that their partnership with Bangladesh must benefit the common people on both sides, stressing that their relations have always been people-centric.

"We remain confident that the reality of our cultural and societal connections and the logic of our interdependence and mutual benefit will keep guiding our relationship forward," he said.

Speaking at a reception celebrating the 76th Republic Day of India at a city hotel on Saturday evening, High Commissioner Verma said they have and will continue to support a "democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive" Bangladesh.

He said India will continue to seek a "stable, positive, constructive, forward-looking and mutually beneficial relationship" with Bangladesh, in which people are the main stakeholders.

Planning and Education Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud spoke at the event as the chief guest.

The Adviser said over the years, the two countries collaborated in a wide range of areas, and Bangladesh is committed towards strengthening the relationship based on mutual respect and understanding of each other’s perspectives, concerns and priorities.

Political leaders including, emeritus president of the Gono Forum Dr Kamal Hossain, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhory, Jatiya Party leaders including its Chairman GM Quader, Advisers including Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin, senior dignitaries from the government and Armed Forces of Bangladesh, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, businesses leaders, editors, civil society members, think-tanks and celebrities were present.