The interim government is committed to holding free, fair and inclusive elections as per the expectations of the people, Planning and Education Adviser Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud said yesterday

Addressing an event marking the 76th Republic Day of India at a hotel in the capital, he also said Bangladesh is committed to strengthening relations with neighbouring countries, including India.

The adviser mentioned that Bangladesh wants to advance relations with India and others on the basis of fairness and equality, taking into account mutual priorities and sensitivities.

Prof Wahiduddin recalled the important contribution of the people and government of India during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. The two countries also collaborated in the years after 1971 for shared prosperity and sustainable development, he said.

"We strongly believe our partnership will be stronger in the days to come," the adviser added.

Speaking at the same event, Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Pranay Verma said New Delhi wants to see a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh.

Since India-Bangladesh ties are "interdependent", Verma said, New Delhi attaches importance to maintaining "stable, constructive, future-oriented and mutually beneficial relations".

Such relations are necessary for the welfare of the people of the two countries, the high commissioner said. He called for working together for not only the shared prosperity of the two countries but also the entire region.

He said India-Bangladesh collaboration is vital to address shared challenges of environmental sustainability and climate change.

"We continue to support a democratic, stable, peaceful progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. We remain confident that the reality of our cultural and societal connections, and the logic of our interdependence and mutual benefit will keep guiding our relationship."