Hasina’s extradition matter discussed, but no final decision yet: Foreign Adviser

Hasina’s extradition matter discussed, but no final decision yet: Foreign Adviser

Apr 10, 2025 - 10:12
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Hasina’s extradition matter discussed, but no final decision yet: Foreign Adviser
Hasina’s extradition matter discussed, but no final decision yet: Foreign Adviser

Extradition Issue Raised, But No Decision Yet: Foreign Adviser

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain stated on Tuesday that Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus brought up the issue of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s extradition, but emphasized that no final decision has been made. When pressed for further details, the Adviser declined to elaborate.

Speaking to the media at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Adviser Hossain noted that the advancement of bilateral relations depends on mutual efforts. “We must move forward together,” he said.

Following a bilateral meeting between Prof Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bangkok, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri conveyed Modi’s message that inflammatory rhetoric should be avoided. In response, Adviser Hossain agreed, noting similar behavior from both sides.

Regarding the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project involving China, Hossain said Bangladesh remains open to cooperation with both India and China. “We’ll assess where our national interest is best protected,” he said, adding that progress will take time and no immediate resolution is expected. “We are open to working with either side. There are no barriers.”

During his first-ever bilateral meeting with Prof Yunus at the 6th Bimstec Summit, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and inclusive Bangladesh. Adviser Hossain reaffirmed the government’s commitment to handing over power to elected leadership through a free and fair election.

“Election issues are frequently raised by our partners,” he said, noting that even countries without democratic systems often express concern about Bangladesh’s electoral process.

Modi expressed confidence that all bilateral matters would continue to be resolved through constructive dialogue, highlighting India’s people-centric approach and long-standing cooperation with Bangladesh.

On the topic of Indian visa issuance, Hossain said the decision lies entirely with India, adding, “We too have suspended visa services to India in the past. Visa restrictions don’t create a vacuum—people find alternatives.”

Addressing Rohingya repatriation, Hossain confirmed that Myanmar has agreed 180,000 individuals are eligible to return, but noted that actual repatriation remains uncertain due to conditions in Rakhine State.

On Bangladesh’s recent engagement with China, Hossain said high-level meetings have resulted in progress. Several agreements were signed, and discussions between Prof Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on shared interests. “The visit has had a reasonably positive impact,” he stated.

Regarding protests over Italian visa delays, the Adviser said Dhaka remains in ongoing communication with Rome. “There are concerns about the authenticity of submitted documents. A significant number of fake applications have been found,” he explained, noting that this has also affected genuine applicants.

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