We are pleased to welcome the implementation of the Land Boundary Agreement which at long last allows enclave residents on both sides of the Bangladesh-India border to receive the full benefits of their desired citizenship.
It offers a new start to enclave inhabitants who have been living in a precarious limbo for 68 years and can now look forward to enjoying the same national identity and services as their neighbouring citizens.
The Joint Survey Committee and government authorities should keep up efforts to make sure all eligible residents are properly recorded and help facilitate a smooth transition.
Both our nations can take satisfaction from the diplomacy which made celebration of LBA ratification one of the highlights of Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi’s recent visit to Dhaka. There is sound cause to hope the LBA will lead to improved border management and help transform our mutual boundary into a peaceful area, free of any border killings.
However, this must only be the start.
Bangladesh and India should build on the successful conclusion of the enclaves issue to amicably move forward in resolving other long-standing issues.
Closing this chapter should be used to give a fillip to resolve the Teesta issue and guarantee fair sharing of common river waters. It can also help underpin efforts to grow mutual trade and advance opportunities for business.
Improving bilateral relations is not only in the common interest of Bangladesh and India but can help all the peoples of our region.
By setting a positive example for Saarc and SAFTA to progress their goals, resolving the enclave issue can help boost complementary efforts by the BCIM corridor and BIMSTEC initiatives to increase co-operation, connectivity, and investment across our region.
