Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Saturday described India as a political ally and China as a significant development partner of Bangladesh.
He made the remark during the inaugural session of the week-long ‘Hilly Fruits Fair-2024’ at the Sheikh Hasina Chittagong Hill Tracts History Protection and Research Centre on Baily Road in Dhaka.
Regarding Bangladesh's partnership with China, Quader stressed the importance of taking advantage of available opportunities for the country's development. "We have a partnership with China. The Chinese have constructed the bridge, Padma Bridge, Dhaka-Chittagong four lane road, tunnel under Karnaphuli river. So why shouldn't we accept help if it benefits our development? We will seek assistance from wherever necessary for the country's progress," he said.
Quader noted that the rapid development in Bangladesh, such as the construction of the Metrorail, Padma Bridge, and Expressway, has caused envy among some critics. He concluded that the government does not need to respond to those envious of the country's development trajectory.
Quader highlighted Bangladesh's approach to leveraging opportunities from various international relationships for the nation’s development. "Bangladesh's relationship with India is good, which has allowed us to gain many advantages. India is a political friend of Bangladesh, and China is a development partner. China has contributed significantly to many development projects in our country," he added.
The Hilly Fruits Fair, organised by the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, began Saturday and will run until July 12.
He credited the AL-led government’s good relationship with India, particularly between Sheikh Hasina and Narendra Modi, for solving the enclave problem and gaining access to significant maritime areas. "We received a sea area equivalent to Bangladesh due to the strong relationship between Sheikh Hasina and Narendra Modi. The government also solved the enclave issue," he added.
Quader pointed out that maintaining good relations with other countries enables problem resolution through discussions. He cited the Ganges Treaty as a benefit of the close ties between Bangladesh and India.
"Those who boast forget about the Ganges. Bangladesh never returned empty-handed in the past and doesn't do so now," he said.
Source: BSS