PM Tarique people's person; India optimistic over solutions: High commissioner

Describing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as people's persons, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi today (9 August) expressed optimism about sorting out solutions to issues between the two countries if the two leaders meet.

"I listened to his (PM Tarique) speeches many times….he is a people's person, our Prime Minister (Modi), too. I think when two leaders meet a lot of problems are sorted out. I have full confidence," he told reporters.

The High Commissioner said people are united and there will certainly be a solution. "I am very confident. There is nothing negative. Things remain positive."

He made the remarks after inaugurating the 'Children's Playing Area' at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in the afternoon.

The High Commissioner said there is huge demand for Indian visas and the capacity is gradually increasing.

Trivedi's remarks came as fresh tensions have surfaced between Dhaka and New Delhi following deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's recent press conference in New Delhi, with her remarks drawing strong reactions in Bangladesh.

Amid stated 'outrage' from Bangladesh, the Indian government on Friday reiterated that it had "no role" to play in Sheikh Hasina's press conference in New Delhi, nor does it endorse what was said at the event, where Sheikh Hasina spoke virtually.

Trivedi is set to meet Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for the first time tomorrow (10 August). Issues of mutual interest are likely to be discussed at the meeting.

Ahead of his meeting with the PM, the high commissioner met Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman at state guesthouse Padma yesterday afternoon as both sides continue efforts to engage constructively. Neither side briefed reporters on the outcome of the meeting.