Dinesh Trivedi, the newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, has expressed his optimism about working for the welfare of the 160 crore people of India and Bangladesh. Speaking to journalists after paying respects at the historic Netaji Bhawan in Kolkata on Thursday, June 11, Trivedi emphasized that the relationship between the two nations is destined to strengthen in the future. He remarked that the dreams of democracy and development shared by the citizens of both countries are identical.
During his interactions prior to his departure for Dhaka, Trivedi stated that the bond between the people of Bangladesh and India is not defined by borders alone. He noted that they are deeply connected by the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. He underscored the shared vision, stating that the collective dream of democracy exists across these nations. According to Trivedi, the two countries share the same sky, the same wind, and similar challenges. He emphasized that the path forward requires mutual love and sincerity, which would pave the way for resolving any outstanding bilateral issues.
Trivedi further highlighted the necessity of joint efforts to ensure the welfare of the combined population of both nations. He stated that he is not speaking merely for the 140 crore people of India, but is including the 20 crore people of Bangladesh as well. The welfare of these 160 crore people, whom he referred to as brothers, sisters, and mothers, is of the utmost importance. He expressed confidence that he would have the blessings of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the citizens of both nations as he embarks on this diplomatic mission, aiming for success in the objectives ahead.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Trivedi is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Friday, June 12. He will be accompanied by his wife, Mrinal Trivedi, and is expected to enter Bangladesh via the Benapole-Petrapole land border. Upon his arrival, he will assume his duties as the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, succeeding the former High Commissioner, Pranay Verma. Verma has already departed Dhaka to take up his new assignment as the Ambassador of India to Belgium.
The Indian government announced the appointment of the 75-year-old veteran politician as the new High Commissioner to Bangladesh on April 27. Trivedi, a prominent figure in West Bengal politics, brings extensive experience to his new role. Previously, he served as the Union Minister for Railways and as a Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare under the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, representing the Trinamool Congress. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2021.
Diplomatic observers suggest that the appointment of a seasoned politician like Trivedi signals a desire by New Delhi to elevate bilateral relations to a new level. Given his deep political background and experience in administration, he is expected to focus on strengthening the people-to-people connections and fostering economic cooperation. His arrival is seen as a move that could potentially inaugurate a new chapter in the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two neighboring countries.
