Indian visa process to normalise soon: Khalilur
Dhaka urges restoration of normal travel access
India's visa process for Bangladeshi citizens will ease soon and return to normal, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman said in parliament.
He made the remarks today (28 April) while responding to a written question from Kishoreganj-5 MP Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Iqbal during the 23rd day of the first session of the 13th parliament, chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad Bir Bikram.
He said the government is working to simplify visa access and overcome the current stagnation, while continuing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations with the neighbouring country.
Khalilur Rahman said Bangladesh's relations with India and other South Asian neighbours are based on "goodwill, friendship and solidarity", rooted in shared values, historical links and strong people-to-people bonds.
"The government has been advancing relations with India based on sovereign equality, fairness and mutual respect, while safeguarding national interests," he said.
On visa-related issues, the minister said the government has already taken steps to simplify the process with India.
Referring to his recent visit, he said discussions with India's foreign minister, petroleum and natural gas minister, and national security adviser were "very fruitful".
During those meetings, Bangladesh strongly urged the restoration of normal travel and business visa processes for its citizens, he said.
"Positive changes in visa matters will come soon," the minister told parliament.
