The 4th Round of the India and Bangladesh Consular Dialogue took place in New Delhi, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing people-to-people ties and strengthening consular cooperation. Aman Puri, Joint Secretary (CPV), led the Indian delegation, while Rokebul Haque, Director General (South Asia) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Bangladesh delegation, according to a press release from the Ministry of External Affairs.
Established in 2017, the India and Bangladesh Consular Dialogue serves as a regular communication channel aimed at improving consular, visa, and mutual legal assistance cooperation between the two countries. This dialogue underscores the importance both nations place on fostering close ties and facilitating smoother interactions for their citizens.
During the meeting on Wednesday, both sides engaged in comprehensive discussions on a range of consular issues. These included enhancing coordination and cooperation on visa matters, repatriation processes, mutual legal assistance treaties (MLAT), and extradition cases. The dialogue also saw an agreement to further strengthen the bilateral Revised Travel Arrangement (RTA), which aims to facilitate the movement of nationals from both India and Bangladesh.
The delegations reiterated their dedication to promoting people-to-people exchanges, recognizing the significant role these interactions play in the broader context of India-Bangladesh relations. They agreed to hold the next round of the Consular Dialogue in Dhaka at a mutually convenient date, continuing their efforts to bolster bilateral cooperation.
The successful conclusion of the 4th Round of the India-Bangladesh Consular Dialogue highlights the ongoing commitment of both nations to address consular issues collaboratively and enhance the overall framework for bilateral engagement.