Bangladesh and India are set for high-level talks on renewing the Ganges water treaty, with discussions also expected on visas, trade, connectivity and broader efforts to rebuild bilateral trust.
Bangladesh and India are preparing for a new round of high-level diplomatic engagement as both sides move toward discussions on renewing the Ganges water-sharing agreement, which is set to expire in December.
Diplomatic sources say Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister is expected to travel to New Delhi soon to address critical issues surrounding water distribution. A meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is scheduled for April 8, marking what could be the first significant ministerial-level engagement between the two countries in recent times.
The talks are expected to focus primarily on extending the Ganges Water Treaty and shaping its future framework. Officials believe the discussions may also lay the groundwork for a possible bilateral meeting between Bangladesh’s leadership and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an upcoming visit to India.
Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have slowed in recent months. However, the renewed diplomatic activity signals efforts by both sides to rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation.
Beyond water-sharing, the agenda is likely to include broader bilateral issues such as connectivity, trade and people-to-people exchanges. Visa-related concerns are also expected to feature prominently. Since July 2024, India has imposed restrictions on tourist visas for Bangladeshi nationals citing security concerns. Bangladesh is expected to push for a review of the policy.
Experts and youth leaders have highlighted the urgency of reaching a balanced agreement. Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, stressed the importance of long-term cooperation on transboundary rivers.
“Maintaining long-term commitment and cooperation on transboundary rivers is essential for water security and climate resilience. The renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty must ensure equity, sustainability and the rights of downstream communities,” he said.
Officials say the upcoming talks could play a crucial role in revitalizing bilateral ties while ensuring a sustainable and mutually beneficial outcome on the Ganges water-sharing issue.
