State Minister hopeful of resolving India-Bangladesh series deadlock

State Minister hopeful of resolving India-Bangladesh series deadlock

State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque has expressed optimism that the uncertainty surrounding the proposed bilateral series against India in September will be resolved soon. While the series' future was thrown into doubt due to tensions following the recent World Cup and the current political context, he said diplomatic and ministerial-level discussions are underway to find a positive solution .

When asked on Monday whether the press conference in Delhi by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and some of her party members had affected bilateral relations, the State Minister dismissed the notion. "No, I don't think so (that the press conference has soured our relations)," he told reporters on the sidelines of a football tournament in Dhaka. "I believe sports is just sports, and through sports, we develop good relations with all our neighbours."

The State Minister noted that the government has already taken high-level steps to ensure the series goes ahead. "It is being worked on at the ministerial level. I have spoken to the Foreign Minister today, and he is also speaking with his Indian counterpart," he said, expressing confidence that the issue will be resolved soon.

The State Minister's comments come after the BCB expressed concerns over the future of the series. However, the Prime Minister's recent meeting with the Indian High Commissioner is being seen as a significant positive step.

"The Indian High Commissioner has met the Honourable Prime Minister," Aminul Haque said, highlighting the progress made. "He is very optimistic that the tension created over the last World Cup will be resolved quickly. The foreign ministries of both countries have already held discussions, and we are hopeful that, Insha'Allah, this problem will be solved."