BANGLA-BNP 3 LST

Former president of Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of
Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Abdul Awal Mintoo said the
settlement of maritime boundary, water sharing of different
rivers, including Teesta, and Tipaimukh Dam were the most
important issues for Bangladesh and were yet to be resolved.
"They (India) fulfilled their targets, but we couldn't...
achievement on the key issues is very negligible, which
frustrates the nation," said Mintoo.
Echoing Mintoo, former chairman of Economics Department
of Dhaka University Professor Abu Ahmed said the gains from
the Prime Minister's just-concluded tour went mostly in favour
of India as it was able to realise commitment and deals on its
own issues like terrorism, and seaports.
About the Indian zero-tariff offer to allow 40 new
Bangladeshi goods in the Indian market, he said this is not
new as similar commitment was made in the past "but those were
not implemented because of reluctance of Indian bureaucracy".
FBCCI chief Anisul Huq said the visit created enough
scope for Bangladesh to derive trade benefits from India and
it "will have to develop its capability to use opportunity".
Most leading newspapers appreciated the outcome. The
Daily Star said in an editorial "a new phase ushered in
Indo-Bangla relations" that the "commitments will have to be
fulfilled for mutual gains".
The Samakal in its front page lead report termed the
visit as an "indication of possibilities" and said it paved
ways for enhanced bilateral economic ties for mutual benefit.
It also warned that the treaties involved the critical issue
of "security" particularly on allowing India to use port
facilities. PTI