The golden chapter of bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh existed only between the two governments, not between the people of the two countries, said Foreign Adviser Towhid Hossain on Monday.
Speaking to reporters at the foreign ministry, he mentioned that the present government wants good ties with India, but that should be 'people-centric'.
In response to a question, he mentioned that the government has not been formally informed of the whereabouts of the deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
"We know about her when you know," he added.
When asked if the government is more interested in improving bilateral ties with Pakistan than India, he said that the government believes in friendship with all countries. "
In the past, ties with Pakistan deteriorated, and we are simply trying to normalise them," he said, adding that the government aims for equal ties with all nations.
He also mentioned that the Chief Adviser will make a short trip to New York to attend the UNGA, which will not last more than a week.
In response to another question, he expressed that BIMSTEC has failed to be an alternative to SAARC.
BSS adds, the adviser noted that only those with direct responsibilities at the UNGA will accompany the Chief Adviser. However, he noted that the exact dates and duration of the visit have not been finalized yet.
On Sunday, the Foreign Affairs Adviser indicated that Prof Yunus might participate in a limited number of meetings on the sideline of the general assembly while staying in New York.
During the visit, the chief adviser is also expected to attend a reception marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh's relations with the United Nations, he added.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com