DHAKA, Nov 30, 2021 (BSS) - Stressing the need for enhancing connectivity 
between Bangladesh and India to boost bilateral trade and commerce, Prime 
Minister Sheikh Hasina today said the rail communication on Akhaura-Agartala 
route should be reopened.

   "We have to enhance the connectivity. Everything (required establishment) 
of Akhaura-Agartala rail route remains there. It just will have to reopen," 
she said.

   The trade and communication will be fostered as the connectivity increases 
between the neighbouring countries, she said.

   The prime minister said this while Indian high commissioner here Vikram 
Kumar Doraiswami called on her at her official Ganabhaban residence in 
capital.

  Sheikh Hasina said the relations between Bangladesh and India has reached a 
new height.

   She said significant progress has taken place in trade, business and 
tourism sectors between the countries.

   Doraiswami informed the premier that Indian president will visit 
Bangladesh to join the Victory Day celebration marking the birth centenary of 
Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Golden Jubilee of 
the Independence.

Doraiswami also said, "This is a special year and it has a great 
significance that Indian president and prime minister is visiting Bangladesh 
in the same year."

  He added that Bangladesh is a very dear country for India.

  The envoy said they will showcase the relations of Bangladesh and India to 
demonstrate a good framework of their connection.

  He said officials of the countries are currently working to finalise the 
tour of Indian President.

  About Covid-19, the prime minister said that both the countries have to 
remain cautious to tackle the deadly virus.

  The Indian high commissioner thanked the Bangladesh premier for helping his 
country by providing medical equipment during their bad time in fighting 
Covid-19.

  He handed over a very rare photograph of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu 
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman taken in 1972 where he was seen taking one security 
person to his home for having lunch with him.

  He also handed over a pen drive comprising some audios and videos alongside 
some newspaper clippings.

  The premier recalled her horrible days under the captivity of the Pakistani 
occupation forces in December 1971. 

  But when India recognised Bangladesh as a sovereign independent country it 
was great message for them, she said.

   Ambassador at Large Md Ziauddin, PM's Principal Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikaus 
and Indian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh Binoy George were present.