Teesta Project: India’s proposal takes priority, says Hasan

Regarding the Teesta project, both China and India have proposed involvement, but considering the joint river, India's proposal must be considered first, said Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud.

He made these remarks at a press conference organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday at noon, discussing the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to China.

When asked whether the Teesta project will be discussed during the visit to China, the minister explained that the Teesta river is a joint river of India and Bangladesh. India has proposed joint river management and informed Bangladesh that it will send a technical team. This team will work with Bangladesh's technical team to determine the necessary steps.

Hasan said, "Since the two countries share the river, we must naturally consider India's proposal first. China has also offered assistance, which is good, but India's proposal takes precedence. If the Teesta project is brought up during the visit to China, it will be discussed."

On the issue of Bangladesh's significant trade deficit with China, Hasan stated, "We have a huge trade deficit with China. To address this, non-tariff barriers on Bangladesh's exports of agricultural and other products to China should be removed. Additionally, Chinese importers should be encouraged to buy from Bangladesh."

He added that the business delegation accompanying the prime minister will engage in serious discussions to establish connections with Chinese importers.

Citing the close and stable relationship between Bangladesh and China, Hasan stated, "They are our major development partners. This visit will surely strengthen and expand our relationship."

IHR/NMA