The Prime Minster is embarking on a most important bilateral visit in recent times, since Bangladesh-India relations happen to be, for us, the most important bilateral relationship. Reportedly, some 33 deals and MoUs are likely to be signed during the four-day visit starting from today. 

Generally, in bilateral relations, the past is a very good index of how the future years will develop between the two countries. For her part, our Prime Minister has exhibited her commitment to maintain the best of relations with India. However, Bangladesh-India inter-relation is hinged on a few basic bilateral concerns which form the nub of the relationship. For India, it is security and transit. For Bangladesh, it is economic development and reduction of trade deficit and sharing the waters of common rivers.

So far Bangladesh has addressed all of India's security concerns by ensuring that its territory was not used to conduct hostile acts against India. And India's transit requirements, particularly of gaining access to the 'Seven Sister' states in the North East through Bangladesh, have also been ensured. As for our concerns, we are glad to note that Bangladeshi goods now have free access to Indian markets, but India may consider removing some of the countervailing duties. And while sharing of Teesta water continues to defy resolution, it remains a disappointment for us. Water remains the most important factor for our survival, one that has great impact on our environment and our flora and fauna. And this is something we would want India to appreciate.

We wish our Prime Minister all the best and hope that the level of Bangladesh-India relationship will be taken a few notches higher through this visit.