India says 'observed all protocols, agreements' over fencing, security measures at border
Animosity is not in the interest of Bangladesh and India, Indian Army Chief Dwivedi says
Highlights:
- India says barbed wire fencing, border lighting measures for securing the border
- India expects Bangladesh to implement all earlier understandings
- Reiterates commitment to ensuring a crime-free border
India today conveyed to Bangladesh that it observed all "protocols and agreements" between the two governments and border forces with regard to security measures along the borders, including fencing.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh acting High Commissioner Md Nural Islam to the South Block and conveyed the message, reports UNB.
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The development came a day after Bangladesh "summoned" Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma and conveyed deep concern during a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs over the recent activities of India's Border Security Force (BSF) along the Bangladesh-India border.
Meanwhile, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi today said any kind of animosity is not in each other's interest as neighbouring countries Bangladesh and India hold mutually strategic importance.
He made the statement during his first press briefing after taking charge, reports India Times.
During the meeting with the Bangladesh acting high commissioner, India reiterated its commitment to ensuring a crime-free border by effectively addressing the challenges of cross-border criminal activities, smuggling, movement of criminals and trafficking.
Barbed wire fencing, border lighting, installation of technical devices and cattle fences are measures for securing the border, according to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.
India conveyed its expectation that Bangladesh will implement all earlier understandings and that there will be a cooperative approach to combating cross-border crimes.
On Sunday, Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin called upon the government of India to advise all the authorities concerned in India to refrain from "any provocative actions" that could escalate tensions along the shared border.
"We have an understanding with regard to fencing the border for security. Our two border guard enforcements – BSF and BGB – have been in communication in this regard," Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma told reporters in his statement after the meeting at the foreign ministry that lasted over half an hour.
Verma expressed hope that the understandings reached between the two border forces will be implemented in a cooperative approach to combat border crimes.
The Indian high commissioner said he met the foreign secretary to discuss India's commitment to ensuring a crime-free border and effectively addressing the challenges of smuggling and trafficking.
Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin stressed that such activities, particularly the unauthorised attempt to construct barbed wire fencing and the related operational actions by BSF, have caused tensions and disturbances along the border.
He said the construction of barbed-wire fences without proper authorisation undermines the spirit of cooperation and friendly relations between the two neighbouring countries.
The foreign secretary hoped that the upcoming BGB-BSF director general-level talks would be able to discuss the matter at length.
The India-Bangladesh border, one of the longest international borders in the world, has often been a point of contention, with incidents ranging from border security issues to the movement of people.
Any animosity is in nobody's interest: Indian Army chief on Bangladesh
Dwivedi assured that there is currently no vulnerability from either side, adding, "As of today, there is no vulnerability from any side. I was in touch with the chief of the Bangladesh Army even when this changeover took place. In November, we had a video conference also."
On military cooperation, he noted that ties remain strong, with Indian officers participating in the National Defence College in Bangladesh.
Regarding joint exercises being postponed due to the current situation, Dwivedi expressed hope, saying, "As and when the situation improves, that exercise will also go on.
"As of now, the relationship with the military is well and perfect."
