Bangladesh and India have agreed to deepen cooperation on border security, intelligence exchange and efforts to combat transnational crimes following the latest Director General-level talks between Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Force (BSF).
A joint statement issued on Monday after the meeting said the two sides held extensive discussions on a broad range of border-related issues, including security infrastructure, smuggling, terrorism, border demarcation, water management and the spread of misinformation affecting bilateral relations.
During the talks, the Bangladeshi delegation raised concerns regarding the construction of fencing and other security installations within 150 yards of the international border without prior approval. Bangladesh stressed that any such activities must comply with existing bilateral arrangements. In response, both sides agreed that field-level units would avoid unauthorised construction and strictly adhere to agreed border management protocols.
The meeting also focused on tackling organised cross-border crimes. Recognising the economic impact of counterfeit currency and gold smuggling, the two border forces agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and coordinate enforcement efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating along the frontier.
Security issues were another key topic. BGB expressed concern over reports of possible activities by armed and separatist groups from Bangladesh’s hill tracts region in India’s Mizoram state. BSF officials reiterated India’s policy of not allowing its territory to be used for activities that threaten Bangladesh’s security and pledged continued cooperation against terrorism and militancy.
The delegations further discussed unresolved border demarcation matters, including the installation of permanent boundary pillars in areas currently marked by temporary indicators. Bangladesh also highlighted concerns over water withdrawal from the Kushiyara River and delays related to the Rahimpur Khal intake channel project. Both countries agreed that such issues would continue to be addressed through existing bilateral mechanisms, including the Joint Rivers Commission.
In addition, the two sides expressed concern over the circulation of false information and misleading reports related to border affairs. They agreed to work with relevant authorities to discourage rumours and propaganda that could negatively affect relations between the neighbouring countries.
The director generals of both forces concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace, stability and security along the Bangladesh-India border through continued dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding.
