‘Border killing a matter of concern’

India and Bangladesh have directed the concerned border forces to enhance coordinated measures to bring down border killings to zero.

In a joint statement, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi today enhanced the coordinated measures expressing concern over the loss of civilian lives at the border.

“Both leaders also agreed that the loss of civilian lives at the border is a matter of concern and directed the concerned border forces to enhance coordinated measures to work toward bringing such border incidents down to zero,” the statement reads.

The two sides agreed that the remaining restrictions on entry and exit from land ports in India for citizens of Bangladesh travelling on valid documents would be removed in a phased manner, beginning with checkpoints at Akhaura (Tripura) and Ghojadanga (West Bengal).

The two prime ministers also emphasised the importance of effective border management for ensuring a tranquil, stable and crime-free border.

Towards this goal, the leaders directed their respective border forces to complete border fencing at all pending sectors at the International Border between both the countries at the earliest.

Narendra Modi, in the statement, appreciated the zero-tolerance policy undertaken by the Government of Bangladesh against terrorism.

He also commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her resolute efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the region.