'Mistrust must be done away with for better Indo-Bangla trade'

The current volume of informal trade between Bangladesh and India suggests possible scope for bilateral trade through legitimate channels, Union DONER and Tribal Affairs Minister P R Kyndiah has said.

Mr Kyndiah also said migration and militant activities continued to cause concern to India despite renewed mutual interest to boost trade between the two countries.He said this while inaugurating a seminar on 'Indo-Bangladesh Border Trade:status, problems and potentials'.

Mr Kyndiah said migration from Bangladesh and militant organisations from this region taking shelter in that country were creating problems. The economic, social and political implications of border trade were very important as it would facilitate economic activities that would be beneficial to the local people.He pointed out that trade activities between India and Bangladesh were on the decline. ''With Bangladesh gradually growing as a trade partner, informal trade takes place both along the West Bengal and Northeast borders,'' he said.

For better trade 'mistrust and prejudices' inherited from the past must be done away with and replaced by a mutually beneficial environment.There has to be a realisation that trade and commerce are for mutual interest and restrictive regimes do not help growth, he said.Business meets, trade shows and exhibitions should be organised to promote mutual awareness and understanding and service sectors such as tourism, health and education should also be given adequate importance, he said.

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