Aabaar Dekha Hobe

As I leave Bangladesh to take up my next assignment as India's Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, many thoughts come to mind.

My wife Manu and I spent nearly four years in Dhaka — longer than the usual three-year tenure. During this time, we witnessed several transitions, each distinct from the other, each bringing a new set of interlocutors and a different prism through which relations with India were viewed. At times, it was challenging. But looking back, it has been an enriching and deeply rewarding experience.

We will carry many indelible memories from Bangladesh. Over the years, many people touched our lives in remarkable ways, building bonds of friendship that will far outlast our diplomatic association with this country.

Working in Bangladesh made me realise how truly special and unique our relationship is. At one level, we are connected by shared geography, history, language and traditions. There is a cultural affinity and empathy between our societies that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

At a deeper level, we remain emotionally connected through the shared sacrifices of 1971 and the Liberation War of Bangladesh.

Ours is also a relationship shaped by significant interdependence and deep linkages. A prosperous Bangladesh is in India's interest, just as a prosperous India is in Bangladesh's interest.

I remain convinced that these societal, cultural and emotional connections — together with the logic of mutual benefit and interdependence — will continue to guide our relationship forward.

Both India and Bangladesh have come a long way in the 55 years since Bangladesh's independence. Today, both countries are more capable, more connected and more aspirational than ever before. Both are critical stakeholders in the peace, stability and development of the region.

Cooperation between our two countries will remain essential in addressing shared challenges such as climate change and environmental sustainability. As the region's two largest economies, India and Bangladesh also have a shared responsibility to anchor deeper regional integration.

Because our realities have changed so significantly over the decades, I also believe we need a more future-oriented agenda for engagement — one aligned with our evolving capabilities, aspirations and development priorities. It should be driven by our strong cultural and economic linkages, and grounded in mutual interest, mutual benefit and mutual respect.

As two rapidly growing neighbours, our geographical proximity should be viewed as an asset, not a liability. We must continue working to transform that proximity into new opportunities for both countries.

I remain hopeful that all those who value India-Bangladesh relations will work together to realise this shared vision.

As I leave Bangladesh, I do so with optimism about the future of our relationship.

Four years is a long time, but not long enough for the fondness and emotional attachment we have developed for this country and its people. Despite the inevitable ups and downs, our time in Bangladesh will remain among the most cherished postings for both me and my wife — above all because of the extraordinary friendships we formed here and the warmth and affection we received from people across the country.

We look forward to staying in touch with the many gracious and kind-hearted friends from all walks of life in Bangladesh who touched our hearts so deeply. We hope our paths will cross again — sometime, somewhere.

Until then, all I want to say is — Aabaar Dekha Hobe!