New Delhi
August 13, 1999

In response to a question regarding statements attributed to Begum Khaleda Zia, the Spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs said that relations between India and Bangladesh are close and friendly. These relations have been developing steadily in all aspects in recent years based on the principles of mutual benefit, mutual respect and sovereign equality. During his lifetime, President Zia-ur-Rahman had consistently professed a desire to strengthen and deepen these relations between these two neighbouring countries. From time to time, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia herself has been addressing cordial messages of friendship and greetings to the leadership of India.

If the recent statements reported in the press are true, it is a matter of regret and disappointment that such false and outrageous statements have been made.