News Desk

Outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on May 25 expressed deep optimism about the future of India-Bangladesh relations, saying the friendship and emotional bond between the two neighbouring countries would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.

The remarks came during a courtesy meeting with Shahidur Rahman Tapa, editor of True Tone, at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. During the meeting, Shahidur Rahman Tapa presented a memento to the outgoing envoy in recognition of his diplomatic contributions and efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between Bangladesh and India.

Also present at the meeting was First Secretary (Political and Press) of the Indian High Commission, Gokul V K.

Speaking on the occasion, Pranay Verma reflected on his nearly four-year tenure in Bangladesh, describing the experience as both enriching and emotionally memorable. As he prepares to take up his next assignment as India’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, he said Bangladesh would always remain close to his heart.

“As I leave Bangladesh and move on to my next assignment, many thoughts come to my mind,” Verma said. “We stayed in Dhaka for nearly four years – longer than the usual three-year tenure. We witnessed multiple transitions during this period, each bringing different perspectives and new interlocutors. At times, it was challenging, but overall, it has been a rewarding and enriching experience.”

The High Commissioner said he and his wife, Manu Verma, would carry countless cherished memories from Bangladesh, especially the friendships and affection they received from people across the country.

He emphasized that India and Bangladesh share a unique relationship rooted in geography, history, language, culture, and traditions. According to him, the emotional bond forged during the Bangladesh Liberation War remains one of the strongest foundations of bilateral relations.

“At a deeper level, we are emotionally connected by our shared sacrifices during the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971,” he said.

Pranay Verma further highlighted the growing interdependence between the two nations, stressing that the prosperity of Bangladesh is closely linked with India’s own development and regional stability.

“A prosperous Bangladesh is in India’s interest, just as a prosperous India is in the interest of Bangladesh,” he stated. “Our societal, cultural, and emotional connections, combined with the logic of mutual interdependence and mutual benefit, will continue to guide our relationship in the future.”

The outgoing envoy also underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges such as climate change, environmental sustainability, trade, and regional connectivity. He said both India and Bangladesh, as the two largest economies in the region, have a responsibility to lead efforts toward stronger regional integration and sustainable development.

Reflecting on the transformation of both nations over the past 55 years since Bangladesh’s independence, Verma said the two countries are now more capable, connected, and aspirational than ever before. He called for a new, future-oriented agenda in bilateral engagement based on mutual respect, mutual benefit, and shared development priorities.

“Our geographical proximity should be seen as an asset, not a liability,” he said. “We must constantly work to transform this proximity into new opportunities for the peoples of both countries.”

Expressing confidence in the future of bilateral ties, the diplomat said he remains hopeful that well-wishers from both nations would continue working together to strengthen the relationship further.

Before concluding his remarks, Pranay Verma became visibly emotional while recalling his years in Bangladesh.

“Four years is a long time, but not long enough considering the fondness and emotional attachment we developed for this country and its people,” he said. “Despite all the ups and downs, our posting in Bangladesh will remain one of the most cherished experiences of our lives.”

Ending his farewell message with warmth and affection, he added in Bengali, “Abar Dekha Hobe” — meaning, “We shall meet again.”