India eyes defence pact during Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina’s visit

Upgrading defence cooperation, expanding regional connectivity initiatives and establishing stability in South Asia will top the agenda when Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina meets PM Narendra Modi during her visit here between September 5 and 8.

India and Bangladesh have sought to create a model for regional cooperation besides reviving several connectivity initiatives over the last few years. The Akhaura-Agartala rail link will reopen soon, and it is anticipated that Agartala and Chittagong will be connected by air in a few weeks. If the circumstances allow, Bangladesh’s Padma Shetu (bridge) could be utilised to transport passengers and cargo between the Northeastern states, including Tripura, and the Indian subcontinent, in addition to the normal delivery of Indian commodities to Bangladesh.

Sharing of waters of common rivers and joint water management is also expected to figure prominently during the high-profile visit.

The two sides are expected to ink an agreement on interim sharing of water of the Kushiyara River during Hasina’s visit, sources said. Last month, India and Bangladesh finalised the text of the agreement on interim sharing of the river water.