S Jaishankar refutes claims by Bangladesh's Mohammad Yunus, asserting India's dominance in Bay of Bengal connectivity and Northeast region's role as a BIMSTEC hub.
S Jaishankar: Following controversial statements made by Bangladesh's interim government head, Mohammad Yunus, regarding India's northeastern states during a visit to China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar issued a b rebuttal. Participating in the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Conference, Jaishankar dismissed Yunus' claims, highlighting India's possession of the longest coastline in the Bay of Bengal, approximately 6,500 kilometers long. He further emphasized India's crucial role in connecting not only the five BIMSTEC countries it shares a border with, but also in facilitating connectivity amongst them.
India's Northeast Region: A Connectivity Hub for BIMSTEC
Jaishankar countered Yunus' assertions by stating that India's Northeast is emerging as a connectivity hub for BIMSTEC. He referenced the extensive network of roads, railways, waterways, grids, and pipelines in the region. Furthermore, he highlighted India's role as an interface between the Indian subcontinent and ASEAN countries, fostering trade and cooperation between them.
A Geography Lesson for Bangladesh
Without naming him directly, Jaishankar criticized Mohammad Yunus, stating that Bangladesh's claim was inaccurate and that a review of geography was needed. He emphasized that India's Northeast is not landlocked and that India enjoys extensive access to the Bay of Bengal.
Yunus' Controversial Statement
Earlier, during his visit to China, Mohammad Yunus had claimed that India's northeastern states are landlocked with no access to the sea. Yunus further asserted that Bangladesh is the guardian of the Bay of Bengal's maritime region. This statement drew sharp condemnation from Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who termed it aggressive and inaccurate.
India's Contribution to BIMSTEC
Jaishankar stated that India has significantly increased its energy and focus on strengthening BIMSTEC over the past decade. He also emphasized that BIMSTEC cooperation should be based on an integrated approach rather than selective issues.
