Dhaka [Bangladesh], April 16 (ANI): Supradip Chakma, Adviser to Bangladesh's Interim Government, emphasised the importance of strengthening people-to-people connections between India and Bangladesh, particularly through the service and tourism sectors.

Highlighting linguistic and cultural similarities with Indian states like West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Assam, Chakma emphasised that such ties can ease political tensions.

On being asked how India and Bangladesh can work together to develop people's connection, Chakma told ANI, 'Unfortunately, we don't give serious attention to the service sector, which includes the tourism sector... We have a huge middle-income group... We should make them a serious market internally so that they reduce going to other countries. India is advantageous for us because four states of India - West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Assam- almost speak our language. So our people always feel comfortable going there... People-to-people contact will ease political tension between the two nations.'

Chakma also noted that despite India halting the trans-shipment facility, Bangladesh has alternative options and can still benefit from India's advantages, including in sectors like medical tourism.

On India halting the trans-shipment facility for Bangladesh, Chakma said, 'This barrier will not hamper too much in exporting our products... We could develop our Cox's Bazar or Chittagong Airport for airlifting or develop the Dhaka airport... So, we have plenty of ways to overcome this Indian barrier... With India, we have a linguistic advantage. Also, we can utilise India for medical tourism.'

Last week, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the withdrawal of the trans-shipment facility previously extended to Bangladesh, citing logistical challenges and congestion at Indian ports and airports.

Addressing the weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, 'The Trans-shipment facility extended to Bangladesh had, over a period of time, resulted in significant congestion at our airports and ports. Logistical delays and higher costs were hindering our own exports and creating backlogs.'

'The facility, therefore, has been withdrawn with effect from April 8, 2025. To clarify, these measures do not impact Bangladesh exports to Nepal or Bhutan transiting through Indian territory,' the MEA spokesperson added. (ANI)