Bangladesh and India are preparing for a high-level Foreign Secretary meeting in Dhaka next month, with discussions likely to cover a range of bilateral issues, including the potential extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India.
At the Foreign Ministry's weekly briefing on Thursday, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Wing Toufique Hasan confirmed that an inter-ministerial meeting has already taken place to coordinate preparations for the upcoming talks.
The Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) is scheduled to be held early December in Dhaka.
“There is scope for discussion on the matter (extradition of Sheikh Hasina),” Hasan said at a weekly media briefing.
Sheikh Hasina, who fled Dhaka on August 5 and has been residing in India since then, is facing trial in Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal for alleged involvement in mass killings during the July-August uprising.
While the government intends to bring her back, Hasan emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet received any formal directive to initiate the extradition process.
“We will engage with Delhi and begin the formal process in accordance with the existing extradition treaty once we receive the necessary instructions,” he clarified in response to queries.
The FOC will be led by Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
Regarding the review of existing agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries, Hasan noted that these fall under the jurisdiction of various ministries in Bangladesh.
“Consultations with all relevant stakeholders are crucial, and implementing any measure will take time,” he said, adding that although there has been limited progress over the past 100 days, there is hope for “significant progress” in the coming months.
On the topic of Indian visas, Hasan confirmed that the Indian Visa Center is operational but is currently prioritizing medical and student visa applications.
He also addressed the issue of negative media campaigns in certain Indian outlets against Bangladesh.
No decision yet on repatriation of Sheikh Hasina: MoFA
Concerning direct air travel between Dhaka and Karachi, Hasan informed that Pakistan had submitted a request to resume connectivity.
“The matter is under review and has been forwarded to the Ministry of Civil Aviation,” the Foreign Ministry official added, noting that updates will be provided in due course.