 |
|
The interim government of Bangladesh, under the leadership of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is considering a comprehensive review of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with India, potentially leading to the cancellation of those deemed non-beneficial to Bangladesh. This review, fueled by a perception that the previous administration of Sheikh Hasina favored Indian interests during the signing of MoUs, highlights the evolving political landscape and the potential for shifting dynamics in the bilateral relationship. While no formal announcement has been made, reports from Bangladeshi media outlets suggest that the interim government believes these MoUs were overly favorable to India and could be detrimental to Bangladesh's national interests.
The review extends beyond MoUs to encompass Indian-funded projects. The planning ministry is actively assessing the feasibility of ongoing and proposed projects financed by Indian Lines of Credit (LoCs). Many stakeholders believe that these projects, particularly infrastructure projects like the four-lane road from Ashuganj to Akhaura, serve primarily Indian interests rather than benefiting Bangladesh directly. Concerns regarding the effectiveness and potential drawbacks of these projects, coupled with the perception that India holds undue influence through these financial agreements, have prompted this review. The potential ramifications of this scrutiny could impact the future of Indian investment in Bangladesh.
Amidst these developments, the interim government has expressed its intention to restart dialogue with India regarding the Teesta water-sharing treaty. Adviser on water resources Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasized the importance of adhering to international principles regarding water distribution, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that ensures the rights of both upper-riparian and lower-riparian countries. She expressed optimism for a mutually agreeable solution, but also acknowledged the possibility of resorting to international legal documents and principles if negotiations fail. The Teesta water-sharing treaty has been a contentious issue for years, and this renewed push for dialogue signals a potential shift in the Bangladesh government's approach to this critical matter.
The current review of MoUs and Indian-funded projects, coupled with the renewed focus on the Teesta water-sharing treaty, reflects a multifaceted approach by Bangladesh's interim government towards its relationship with India. While the interim government's stance is still in its nascent stages, it has the potential to significantly impact the future of bilateral relations. The outcomes of these reviews and the dialogue on the Teesta treaty will provide crucial insights into the trajectory of the relationship between Bangladesh and India in the coming months and years.
Source: Bangladesh may review, scrap non-beneficial MoUs & projects signed with India: Reports