The planned fifth consular dialogue between Bangladesh and India has been postponed, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed. The dialogue was scheduled to be held in Dhaka on November 17 and 18.
Diplomatic sources in both Dhaka and New Delhi said India sent a diplomatic note last week requesting the postponement of the Dhaka meeting due to scheduling conflicts. Multiple diplomatic sources in Dhaka, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the dialogue was being organized with the consent of both parties for next week. However, with the postponement, the chances of the meeting taking place this year are now very slim.
Preparations and Agenda
Ahead of the consular dialogue, an inter-ministerial meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on November 3. The meeting was expected to discuss issues including preventing illegal border crossings (push-ins), peaceful border management, visa procedures, and the repatriation of detained citizens from both countries.According to diplomatic analysts, the regular consular dialogue between the two countries is a vital component of bilateral relations. These dialogues typically cover detailed discussions on border management, visa processes, and issues concerning citizens of both nations. A new date for the postponed meeting has not yet been finalized.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued any official statement on the matter. However, sources indicated that the foreign offices of both countries remain in contact to determine a new schedule. While the possibility of the meeting being held this year is remote, diplomatic sources suggest it could take place early next year.
