bangladesh: Trade, security in focus during Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina’s visit

India is expected to roll out the red carpet for Bangladesh Prime Minister and close ally Sheikh Hasina during her official visit next month, which may see the neighbours push for strengthening trade and security partnership amid economic concerns and China‘s increasing activity in South Asia.

During the September 6-7 visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hasina are expected to jointly inaugurate a 1,320 MW power plant worth about $1.5 billion. The coal-fired station is being set up by Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company Limited, a 50:50 joint venture between India’s

and Bangladesh Power Development Board.

An agreement on river water sharing and cross-border port connectivity projects are also on the agenda.

The Bangladesh currency is going steady against the US dollar. From agriculture to pharmaceuticals and from shipbuilding to garments, its industrial base is diversifying and its exports increasing.

The Indian army chief had visited Dhaka last month and it was followed by a visit of a high-level military delegation from Bangladesh to India last week, as New Delhi seeks to activate the $500 million defence line of credit offered to Dhaka a few years ago. India has invited Bangladesh to participate in Def Expo 2022.