Modi and Jaishankar’s Response to Yunus’ Claims on Regional Ocean Custodianship

Prime Minister Modi and Minister Jaishankar countered Muhammad Yunus’s assertion that Bangladesh is the sole guardian of the ocean by emphasizing the strategic importance of India’s northeastern region within Bimstec. Both leaders called for enhanced collaboration and stressed the need for self-reliance and connectivity among member states in a changing global context.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently addressed claims made by Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government. During his visit to China, Yunus asserted that Bangladesh acts as the sole guardian of the ocean, highlighting that India’s northeastern states are landlocked. Modi and Jaishankar emphasized the strategic significance of India’s northeastern region within the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec).

In his remarks prior to departing New Delhi for the sixth Bimstec summit in Thailand, Prime Minister Modi remarked on the pivotal geographical placement of India’s northeastern region, noting that it is central to Bimstec’s endeavors. Moreover, he mentioned his upcoming visit to Sri Lanka, suggesting that such engagements are aimed at reinforcing relationships in the region.

During the 20th Bimstec ministerial meeting, Jaishankar advocated for enhanced collaboration among member nations while cautioning against selective cooperation, which was interpreted as a subtle reference to Dhaka and Yunus. Jaishankar underscored India’s prominent role in Bimstec, illustrated by its extensive coastline and geographical connections to other member states.

Emphasizing the progress of infrastructure in India’s northeastern region, Jaishankar highlighted its emergence as a connectivity hub crucial for the Bimstec initiative. The Minister stressed the necessity for comprehensive cooperation, stating that it must not be subject to selective interests.

In another pointed comment directed at Yunus, Jaishankar acknowledged the changing global dynamics, underscoring the need for regions to be more self-reliant amid ongoing global challenges. He asserted that local collaboration has become increasingly crucial, especially concerning food, fuel, and disaster responses.

Jaishankar concluded by emphasizing the ambitious goals of Bimstec and the importance of creating frameworks for genuine collaboration among its members. Bimstec consists of seven countries, including India and Bangladesh, with the latter poised to assume the chairmanship next.

In conclusion, both Prime Minister Modi and Minister Jaishankar have articulated India’s significant role within the Bimstec framework, countering Yunus’s claims by reinforcing the importance of India’s northeastern region. The emphasis on cooperation, connectivity, and self-reliance amidst changing global conditions highlights India’s strategic objectives in the region. The future of Bimstec relies on collective endeavors, overcoming selective participation, and responding effectively to regional challenges.

Original Source: www.deccanchronicle.com