India for democratic, stable Bangladesh

Major Events Vol. 3 Issue No. 45

March 1-15, 2008

India for democratic, stable Bangladesh

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil said as a close and friendly neighbour, India would prefer to see a peaceful, stable and liberal democratic Bangladesh. The President expressed the view when Chief of Bangladesh Army, General Moeen U Ahmed met her. This is also the line towed by New Delhi in its talks with the visiting General. “It is our hope that the people of Bangladesh will be able to exercise their will through free and fair elections for restoration of full democracy,” said the President, addressing the joint session of the Parliament.

General Mooen, who arrived on a six-day tour, first-ever by a Bangladeshi General, New Delhi made all the right noises. He met the Chief of Army Staff, General Deepak Kapoor and External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee. He is also scheduled to call on Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh and Defence Minister, AK Anthony.

On his way back, General Moeen is going to call on West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee in Kolkata. The General is scheduled to visit the Indian Military Academy in Deradun, Ajmer Sharif and Goa.

It has been learnt that External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee during his meeting with General Mooen reiterated India’s concern over the existence of rebel camps and leaders of militant outfits like ULFA, NDFB, and PLA among others. India is also seeking the extradition of ULFA general secretary, Anup Chetia. The activities of jehadi elements and their involvement in terrorist activities in India were also brought to the notice of the General.

There was much speculation over the General’s wish list. Indications were that General Mooen might be looking for India’s support in restraining the two former Prime Ministers from contesting polls. Considered the most powerful man in Bangladesh and the force behind the anti-corruption crackdown, General Mooen is reported to be aspiring for the President’s post.

Meanwhile, as a token of goodwill, Indian Army presented two stallions and four mares to Bangladesh Army. The reins of the horses were handed over by Gen Deepak Kapoor, Chief of Army Staff to the Bangladeshi General, here today.

The stallions and mares will form a strong breeding germ-plasm for production of quality horses for Bangladesh Army and promote multifarious equestrian activities in that country.

The two stallions and the four broodmares have been bred and produced at Equine Breeding Studs of remount Veterinary Corps, Indian Army at Hisar and Babugarh.

These horses will be transported to Indo - Bangladesh border under arrangement of Indian Army by road. The horses will finally be handed over to Bangladesh Army at Haridaspur – Banipole on Indo Bangladesh border

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