Outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad (JS), Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, on Monday to discuss strengthening parliamentary ties between the two neighboring nations.

During the meeting held at the Jatiya Sangsad, both sides emphasized the importance of mutual cooperation and strategic partnerships to bolster existing bilateral relations.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad recalled India’s wholehearted support during the 1971 Liberation War, noting that it remains the bedrock of the bond between the two countries.

He also expressed gratitude for India’s support of Bangladesh’s candidacy for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), describing it as a testament to India’s sincerity.

Regarding the current domestic political landscape, the Speaker noted that the present parliament is vibrant, with an active opposition party playing a significant role.

He stressed the need to identify new sectors of cooperation to further bridge the parliamentary relationship.

High Commissioner Pranay Verma highlighted the pivotal role of parliamentary friendship groups in enhancing diplomatic relations.

He remarked that exchange visits by parliamentary delegations would serve to further solidify these ties. The discussion also covered economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and the enhancement of people-to-people contact.

The meeting began with the Speaker welcoming the envoy, while High Commissioner Verma congratulated Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on his assumption of the Speaker’s office.

Senior officials from the Indian High Commission and the JS Secretariat were also in attendance.