Bangladesh looks for peaceful resolution to India-Pakistan tension, says Advisor Touhid

“We do not want any major confrontation that could endanger the people of the region,” he says

Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain has expressed hope that India and Pakistan will resolve the tensions following the terror attack in Kashmir through dialogue and mediation.

Speaking in Dhaka on Sunday, he said: "Dhaka does not want any major confrontation that could endanger the people of the region.

“Our position is clear…we want peace across South Asia. We know, India and Pakistan have had conflict-prone relations for decades.”

The advisor stressed that Bangladesh enjoys strong bilateral ties with both India and Pakistan.

He said, “We hope they (India and Pakistan) resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation.

“Some countries have already offered mediation proposals. Regardless of whether it is through bilateral talks or mediation, we want to see tensions reduced and peace maintained.”

Responding to a query about whether Bangladesh would follow Iran and Saudi Arabia in offering mediation between India and Pakistan, Touhid said: “At this stage, we do not believe it is appropriate for us to assume any mediatory role.”

However, he said “If they (India and Pakistan) specifically seek our assistance, we will consider it. Until then, we will not take any initiative on our own.”