India wants positive, future-oriented relations with Bangladesh: Jaiswal

India has reiterated its commitment to building ‘positive, constructive, and forward-looking’ relations with Bangladesh based on mutual interests and exchanges, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. 

Addressing a weekly press briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal outlined India's stance on a range of bilateral issues, including the potential visit of Bangladesh's prime minister, the extradition of former premier Sheikh Hasina, and energy cooperation. 

When asked about Dhaka’s recent statements regarding the extradition of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Jaiswal said there has been no change in India's position. 

He emphasised that New Delhi's approach to extradition requests remains consistent, adding that such requests are always thoroughly reviewed through established legal and procedural frameworks.

Regarding the proposed visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India, Jaiswal stated that a cordial invitation has been extended, but there are no new updates to share at this time. 

He assured reporters that any developments regarding the itinerary would be communicated promptly. 

On the economic front, Jaiswal addressed a recent request from Dhaka for an additional 8,000 liters of fuel. 

He noted that energy cooperation between the two neighbours continues, but the specific request is currently under review. 

Any decision, he added, will factor in India's own domestic requirements, refining capacity, and overall fuel availability. 

Touching upon the long-standing issue of water sharing, specifically regarding the Teesta River, the spokesperson redirected discussions to existing bilateral mechanisms. 

He noted that India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers and that all water-related dialogues must be conducted through the Joint Rivers Commission and established bilateral frameworks.