Indian state minister for external affairs due tomorrow

Discussions on transhipment, opening of multi-modal communication links and bilateral trade are expected to top the agenda of talks between Indian State Minister for External Affairs Ajit Panja and Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Abul Hasan Chowdhury.

The Indian minister is due to arrive here on a three-day official visit tomorrow. It will be the first visit by an Indian leader since the BJP-led coalition government bounced back to power.

Diplomatic sources said the visit will be 'very important' as several key bilateral issues will be discussed. Talks on opening of rail links between the two countries are also expected to be held.

Ajit Panja, who is a former Central Information Minister will be received by State Minister Abul Hasan Chowdhury. The two will hold official talks the same afternoon.

The Indian minister will make a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He will also call on Finance Minister Kibria and Industries Minister Tofail Ahmed.