India has said it is closely monitoring discussions between Bangladesh and Pakistan on JF-17 fighter jets, viewing the matter as having implications for its national security.
Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made the remarks at the ministry’s weekly briefing on Friday.
Responding to a question about reported discussions on fighter jets during Bangladesh Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan’s recent visit to Islamabad, Jaiswal said India is keeping a close watch on all developments that could affect its national security.
Asked separately about Bangladesh and Pakistan’s decision to resume direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi from January 29, and whether India’s permission would be required for the use of Indian airspace, Jaiswal said such issues would be addressed in accordance with the existing air services agreement between India and Bangladesh.
India also expressed concern over attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh. Jaiswal said New Delhi has observed a worrying pattern of repeated attacks on the homes and businesses of minorities by extremists and stressed that such incidents must be addressed swiftly and firmly.
He noted a disturbing tendency to dismiss these attacks as personal enmity, political vendettas or external factors, warning that such negligence emboldens extremists and deepens fear and insecurity among minority communities.
Replying to a question on elections in Bangladesh and Myanmar being “non-inclusive” due to the absence of major political parties, the spokesperson said India has consistently supported inclusive elections. “We have always spoken in favour of inclusive elections so that a credible mandate can be obtained,” he said.
