'Not expecting neighbours to do only what’s in my interest’: Jaishankar on Bangladesh amid Hasina row

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that successful bilateral relationships hinge on meeting the "test of mutual interest." He made these remarks while addressing a session at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, responding to questions about the India-Bangladesh relationship, which has faced strains. Dhaka had reportedly linked Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's potential visit to New Delhi with the extradition of former premier Sheikh Hasina.

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What I can tell you is for any relationship to work, it has to meet the test of mutual interest. It has to work for them, it has to work for us.

Jaishankar declined to delve into the specifics of the discussions between India and Bangladesh regarding the extradition demand. However, he articulated his broader view on international relations, stating, "What I can tell you is for any relationship to work, it has to meet the test of mutual interest. It has to work for them, it has to work for us." He added that he is realistic and does not expect neighbors to act solely in India's interest, stressing the need for mutual recognition and respect for each other's interests.

When relationships find a "landing point" or "common ground," they function smoothly, according to Jaishankar. He believes this principle applies to all of India's neighbors, underscoring the mutuality that underpins such exercises. India had extended an invitation to Rahman for a bilateral visit and to attend the upcoming BRICS Summit as chair of the BIMSTEC grouping. Plans for an immediate visit were postponed, with both sides in contact to reschedule.

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I am also realistic, I’m not expecting neighbours to do only what’s in my interest. There has to be a fair degree, a reasonable degree of my recognising and respecting what is their interest, just as I expect them also to do so.

Separately, Jaishankar addressed the relationship between India and Pakistan, highlighting Pakistan's unique position as a country that "uses terrorism so systematically and in such a sustained manner to attack and pressure another neighbour." He made these comments in response to a question about the upswing in Pakistan-U.S. relations and its potential impact on India, noting that while the U.S. and Pakistan have a long history, India has developed its own relationship with the U.S.

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Pakistan is unique not because it’s a neighbour of India…It is unique because in this day and age, there is no other country which uses terrorism so systematically and in such a sustained manner to attack and pressure another neighbour.