Political tension between India, Bangladesh will not affect trade: Finance Adviser

Political tension between India and Bangladesh will not have any impact on bilateral trade, interim government finance adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed has said.

Speaking after a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Government Purchase at the Secretariat on Tuesday, January 6, Salehuddin Ahmed said emotional factors had played a role in recent developments, but both sides would act with consideration. He said Bangladesh did not want the relationship to be hampered and was confident that political strain would not affect the country’s economy or trade.

Calling the incident involving Mustafizur Rahman unfortunate, the finance adviser said Bangladesh had not initiated the matter. He said a professional player was selected on merit, not charity, and cancelling the move suddenly was unexpected and regrettable, adding that such actions were not beneficial for either country.

He said Mustafizur was a top-class cricketer, a fact acknowledged by everyone, including those involved. According to him, Bangladesh’s response was completely appropriate, as any action would naturally invite a reaction.