Mohammad Yunus’s statement on Seven Sisters: Is Bangladesh changing its diplomatic tactics? There was an uproar over not taking the name of India

News India Live, Digital Desk: Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus, while addressing an international forum, mentioned the North-Eastern states of India i.e. ‘Seven Sisters’, but the thing to note is that he did not take the name of ‘India’ even once. This style of his is being seen as a big signal in diplomatic circles.

What did Mohammad Yunus say?

During an interview and recent discussions, Yunus said that “Bangladesh is a natural gateway to the Seven Sisters.” Talking about trade and connectivity, he emphasized on the economic potential of these seven states. Experts believe that naming the states directly and not naming the sovereign country (India) may appear against diplomatic etiquette.

Why a matter of concern for India?

The north-eastern states of India (Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh) are geographically surrounded by Bangladesh. During Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, there was excellent coordination between India and Bangladesh regarding security and connectivity.

Possible reasons behind this statement of Yunus:

New equation: Is Bangladesh trying to develop direct relations with these states of India?

Security Concerns: India’s biggest concern has been that Bangladeshi soil should not be used for separatist groups operating in the North-East.

International pressure: Does Yunus want to reduce India’s influence by coming under the influence of any external power?

expert opinion

Foreign policy experts say that this statement of Mohammad Yunus shows his intention to create an ‘economic hub’, but without respect for sovereignty, it can sour relations with India. India is already alert about the situation of minorities and political instability in Bangladesh.

Importance of Seven Sisters:

Connectivity: The Bangladesh route is important for India as an alternative to the Chicken Neck (Siliguri Corridor).

Business: The use of Chittagong port of Bangladesh is essential for the development of these states.

Stability: Bangladesh’s cooperation is essential for peace in the North-East.