Vikram Mishri to meet Yunus, ties likely improve
Indian External Affairs Secretary Vikram Mishri will visit Bangladesh on Monday, December 9, amid expectations of easing ongoing tensions and strengthening bilateral ties.
Speaking at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy auditorium on Sunday (December 8), Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, Shafiqul Alam, expressed optimism about the visit’s potential to foster equitable and dignified relations between the two neighbours.
“We hope this visit will mark a turning point, bringing mutual benefits to the people of both countries,” said Alam. “Our goal is a fair, equal, and dignified relationship with India.”
Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir confirmed that Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Mishri is expected to meet the Chief Adviser during his visit.
When asked about resolving ongoing tensions, Shafiqul iterated, “We have multifaceted relations with India, including historical, cultural, and linguistic ties. Every issue of mutual interest will be on the table.”
Questions arose regarding unequal agreements with India. Apurba Jahangir responded, “While the future of our relations will determine how these matters unfold, it’s clear that such issues will come up for discussion.”
Shafiqul invited Indian media to visit Bangladesh and report from the ground. “Transparency is our strength. We believe their presence will counteract the misinformation being spread by Indian outlets.”
Tackling Misinformation and International Engagement
Shafiqul revealed that a recent delegation from Meta met with the Chief Adviser to address the spread of misinformation on social media. Meta has been alerted to fake news and is expected to take action through third-party monitors operating in Bangladesh.
The government also engaged with European Union ambassadors, who have expressed support for the interim government.
Addressing concerns about the availability of soybean oil in the market, Shafiqul assured that the Commerce Ministry is actively monitoring the situation to ensure stable supplies during Ramadan.
When questioned about Sheikh Hasina, Shafiqul said, “The government is committed to bringing her back to face justice for the crimes committed under her orders, including disappearances and laundering public funds. Legal procedures for her extradition from India are being fulfilled.”
Shafiqul noted that Meta is working with local third-party entities to detect and address fake news. However, he acknowledged a trust deficit stemming from the actions of the previous government, which targeted legitimate social media users. “We urge Meta to remove false information while fostering trust,” he added.
