Delhi-Dhaka ties are now beyond Teesta

India was careful not to disrupt the bonhomie by raising issues like illegal migration or atrocities on minorities

The four-day state visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has set a new benchmark and is a reassurance of the friendship between India and Bangladesh. Hasina was given a warm welcome, and in a rare gesture, which also suggests the importance of the bilateral ties, Modi received her at the airport.

The visit gained publicity because of the expectation that an agreement will be signed on sharing water from the Teesta. The agreement is pending since 2011 due to the objection by the West Bengal government. The Opposition in Bangladesh was critical of the visit because Hasina has not been able to strike a deal. However, leaders from both countries showed pragmatism and did not let the relationship to be held hostage because of this.

The non-signing of a Teesta accord is a disappointment, but should it be the only parameter for judging the visit? Besides, meeting Modi, Hasina met top leaders, including President Pranab Mukherjee, vice president Hamid Ansari and external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. These meetings showcased the desire to widen the horizon of cooperation. This indicated India’s overall goal of creating a prosperous neighbourhood where Bangladesh as a key partner.

The immediate outcome of the visit was the 22 agreements. These signify a keen desire to learn and share experiences and expertise. Many of these agreements will not only help in securing the region but also will improve trade and connectivity. India offering to construct 35 community clinics in Bangladesh speaks of the ideal of shared growth and well-being of the region.

Most significant is India offering a $4.5 billion line of credit, additional to $2 billion, to Bangladesh for various development projects.

The visit shed the scepticism in the bilateral ties especially after Bangladesh bought two submarines from China — many had expressed reservation about it.

India also did not raise issues that might have disrupted the bonhomie. Some expressed displeasure over New Delhi not raising issues like illegal migration or atrocities on minorities.

India-Bangladesh ties are on a new trajectory. To continue this momentum the two have to address each other’s concern and deliver the promises made.