Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday (February 22) voiced strong confidence in the future of India-Bangladesh ties, saying the northeastern state is set to play a key role in strengthening trade, connectivity and people-to-people relations between the two neighbours.
Speaking to reporters, Saha underlined the close interdependence shared by India and Bangladesh. He said neither country can progress in isolation and stressed that neighbouring nations must support one another to move ahead.
He pointed to the long-standing historical, cultural and economic bonds between the two sides, noting that geographical closeness and shared interests make deeper cooperation a necessity. As a border state, Tripura holds strategic significance in expanding cross-border trade and exchanges, he added.
Referring to the Maitri Setu, the Chief Minister said the bridge was built to strengthen commercial and economic connectivity with Bangladesh. According to him, the project has improved access considerably and created fresh opportunities for trade and collaboration.
Saha also highlighted the rail link at Nischintapur, saying the new connectivity will boost both passenger travel and movement of goods between the two countries. Better transport links, he said, are expected to benefit tourism, business and industry, contributing to overall socio-economic growth in border areas.
Stressing the importance of trust, cooperation and goodwill, the Chief Minister expressed optimism that India and Bangladesh will continue to deepen engagement through joint initiatives, especially in strategically important regions like Tripura