Government Reviewing 101 India Deals, Decision Expected Soon: Chief Whip

Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni said on Friday that the government is reviewing 101 agreements signed with India during the ousted Sheikh Hasina administration and will soon determine what action, if any, should be taken if any provisions are found to be contrary to Bangladesh’s national interests.

He made the remarks at a press conference at the media centre of the Jatiya Sangsad following the third session of the 13th Parliament.

Moni said Bangladesh wants to maintain friendly relations with neighbouring India, while ensuring that the country’s national interests remain the top priority.

“Bangladesh and India will remain friends, but that friendship will never be allowed to undermine our national interests,” he said.

The chief whip said the government is examining the agreements signed during the Hasina government to identify any provisions that may conflict with Bangladesh’s interests and take appropriate measures accordingly.

Referring to the operation of Chattogram Port, Moni said the previous government had introduced several arrangements through agreements under which vessels from a friendly country would receive priority in unloading if two ships arrived at the port at the same time.