India, Bangladesh to finalise SOPs for consular access
India and Bangladesh have discussed mechanisms to strengthen coordination and cooperation on consular issues and reiterated their commitment to continue to work towards citizen-centric mechanisms.
FollowIndia and Bangladesh have discussed mechanisms to strengthen coordination and cooperation on consular issues and reiterated their commitment to continue to work towards citizen-centric mechanisms.
The mechanism included finalisation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consular access, verification of nationality and release of detainees, particularly early release of detained fishermen.
The two sides agreed that implementation of provisions under the Revised Travel Arrangements (2018) relating to tourist, student and business visas and further liberalization of visa formalities and entry and exit norms would further enhance ease of travel, the Ministry of Affairs said.
Both sides welcomed the close cooperation between agencies to deal with terrorism and cross-boundary crimes and on legal assistance, it said.
Noting the special bond between the two countries and the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties, they agreed to further strengthen the bilateral relations and promote greater people-to-people exchanges.
The next Consular Dialogue will be scheduled in Dhaka. Consular dialogue mechanism between the two countries was instituted in 2017 to discuss issues related to consular, visa, and mutual legal assistance matters.
Foreign Office Consultations
The two countries will hold their next round of Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi on January 29.
During their meeting, both sides will review the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including cooperation in the wake of Covid-19, border management and security, trade & investment, connectivity, energy, water resources, development partnership and regional & multilateral issues.
They will also discuss joint activities to be held throughout the year as the two countries celebrate 50 years of their diplomatic ties. Preparations for the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister to Bangladesh will also be discussed.
"Bangladesh is one of the key pillars of India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy. Both countries have comprehensive cooperation through more than 60 bilateral mechanisms," the ministry said.
