Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain emphasised Bangladesh’s desire for peace in South Asia, advocating for dialogue to ease tensions between India and Pakistan.

Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, Hossain said, “We want peace in South Asia and do not want any major conflict that could endanger the region’s people.”

Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir last week, which killed 26 tourists. India responded by suspending a key water-sharing agreement, closing the sole land crossing with Pakistan, and revoking visas for Pakistani citizens. Pakistan retaliated by cancelling Indian visas, closing its airspace to Indian airlines, halting trade, and vowing to counter any water flow blockages while calling for an impartial investigation. Citizens on both sides have begun returning home via the Wagah border.

When asked about Bangladesh mediating between the two nations, Hossain clarified, “We should not play a mediation role at this moment. We don’t want to act prematurely.” However, he stressed that Bangladesh, which maintains good relations with both countries, supports de-escalation through mediation or bilateral talks. “Whether through mediation or bilateral talks, we want tensions defused and peace maintained,” he said, noting that other countries have already offered to mediate.

Hossain also addressed the reported arrests of over 1,000 alleged Bangladeshis in Gujarat and other parts of India, stating that Bangladesh has not received official confirmation from Indian authorities. “Whether those arrested are Bangladeshis requires verification,” he said. “If confirmed, we will cooperate accordingly and take them back, but their citizenship must be proven.”

Highlighting the long-standing conflicts between India and Pakistan, Hossain reiterated Bangladesh’s commitment to regional stability through dialogue.

Source: UNB