Dhaka: In a bid to enhance cooperation and address mutual concerns, the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) recently concluded the 54th Director General level Border Coordination Conference. Held in Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 5th to March 9th, 2024, the conference saw high-level delegations from both sides engaged in discussions aimed at fortifying border management and fostering goodwill.

Heading the Indian delegation was Nitin Agrawal, IPS, DG BSF, while Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, OSP, BSP, SUP, ndc, psc, M. Phil, led the Bangladesh delegation as the Director General of BGB. These discussions marked a significant step in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security along the India-Bangladesh border.

The conference, which convenes twice a year alternately in India and Bangladesh, delved into various crucial agenda points. Topics ranged from preventing attacks on personnel and civilians to combating trans-border crimes and addressing infrastructural challenges along the border.

Key outcomes of the conference include a commitment from both sides to settle border issues amicably through continued engagement. Additionally, measures were agreed upon to reduce incidents of assault on BSF personnel by Bangladesh-based miscreants. Both parties emphasized the importance of joint efforts in upholding human rights and curbing violence at the border.

The significance of the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) in combating trans-border crimes was underscored, with a pledge to share real-time information and intensify efforts to make the border region crime-free. Furthermore, plans for developmental works within 150 yards of the International Border (IB) were discussed and agreed upon, along with initiatives to preserve historical sites of significance.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the conference and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to maintain peace and tranquility along the border. Looking ahead, they provisionally agreed to convene the next DG level conference in New Delhi, India, in September/October 2024.

The conference serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between India and Bangladesh and their shared determination to address border challenges while fostering mutual trust and cooperation. /BI/