India’s new High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, has expressed optimism regarding visa arrangements upon his arrival in Bangladesh.
He entered Bangladesh on Friday morning via the Benapole–Petrapole land border by road. Shortly after his arrival, he spoke to journalists and addressed questions relating to visa services.
Commenting on the prospect of resuming tourist visas, Dinesh Trivedi said that demographic scale should be viewed collectively rather than separately.
Referring to the combined population of the two countries, he remarked: “We have a population of 140 crore, and if you add 20 crore here, it becomes 160 crore. So whatever happens should happen together. I am not thinking separately about anything.”
He further added in a reflective tone: “Look, I just walked here. It does not feel like I am in Bangladesh. I always say it is the same sky, the same air, the same instruments. So when we talk about visa matters and integration, all of this comes to mind.”
He also noted: “Let me just say one thing that will make everyone happy.”
Highlighting the potential of closer cooperation, he said: “Your strong democracy and our strong democracy—if these two democracies come together, it becomes a global power. It becomes a complete global economic power. But this integration is necessary, and I will certainly carry out my responsibilities for it. However, I will need the support of the media as well.”
