India is undertaking numerous development projects in all neighboring countries except Pakistan and China, reaffirming its commitment to peaceful and cooperative neighborly relations.
These are the words of Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He stated that India has expressed concerns to the Bangladesh government regarding the continuous persecution of minority communities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh.
The External Affairs Minister was responding to questions in the Lok Sabha about India’s foreign policy and the current state of relations with Bangladesh.
He said, “India is undertaking numerous development projects in all neighboring countries except Pakistan and China. We remain committed to peaceful and cooperative neighborly relations.”
However, he also acknowledged that neighboring countries have their own political dynamics, with natural ups and downs. He emphasized that India’s focus remains on ensuring stability and enhancing cooperation.
Jaishankar added that India desires good relations with all its neighbors, including Pakistan. However, he clarified that relations with Pakistan depend on their commitment to addressing terrorism. *”It is up to Pakistan to demonstrate how their policies have changed. For peaceful relations with neighbors, India must also ensure its borders are more secure and fortified,”* he said.
Jaishankar’s remarks were in response to concerns raised by Congress MP Manish Tewari about the Modi government’s “Neighborhood First” policy. He further stated that India has consistently raised concerns over attacks on minorities.
He also mentioned that during Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent visit to Bangladesh, the protection of minorities was a key issue raised with the Bangladeshi government. India hopes that the Yunus government will ensure the safety of minority communities, he added.
