The 13th meeting of the Home Secretaries of India and Bangladesh was held recently at Dhaka. The Indian delegation was led by R.K. Singh, Union Home Secretary, and the Bangladesh delegation was led by C.Q.K. Mustaq Ahmed, Senior Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.

The two Home Secretaries expressed satisfaction at the visit of both delegation to Agartala–Akhaura Integrated Check Post (ICP) to review the existing infrastructure, and noted that this would facilitate trade between Bangladesh and India, particularly Northeast. They also welcomed the opening of several land ports Integrated check posts for bilateral trade between Bangladesh and India. Both sides agreed to allow developmental work including construction of ICPs/LCSs within 150 yards of zero line. Both sides also agreed to constitute a high-level team to monitor development of border infrastructure.

They took note of the outcome of the 12th JWG meeting on security issues held on October15, 2012, wherein the two sides discussed issues such as land boundary demarcation, border management, security issues, implementation of agreements, visa and consular related issues and capacity building, etc.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the smooth operation of coordinated border management plan (CBMP) and agreed to increase number of joint patrolling with a view to curbing criminal activities along the border.

They noted with satisfaction that the implementation of the CBMP has reduced the number of incidents along the border. They expressed confidence that increased number of coordinated patrolling would enhance cooperation between the border guarding forces of the two countries, and enable them to manage the identified vulnerable areas with a view to preventing criminal activities, illegal movement, acts of violence and loss of lives along the border areas. As an additional measure for better border management, both sides agreed to revive the mechanism for regular consultations between the Deputy Commissioner and the District Magistrate of border districts for resolving local issues.

Both sides agreed to further intensify the activities of the different nodal points in different areas of cooperation such as human trafficking, drugs, Interpol, etc. They expressed satisfaction at the regular interaction of different bilateral mechanisms, including BGB-BSF DG level meetings, Narcotics DG level meetings, JWG on security issues, etc. and noted that these regular exchanges helped to enhance understanding and resolve issues for mutual satisfaction.