In a diplomatic stride towards strengthening cooperation, the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) successfully concluded their Coordination Conference. This collaborative effort aimed at addressing bilateral interests promises a brighter future for cross-border relations.

The Coordination Conference reached its conclusion with the formal signing of the Joint Record of Discussion (JRD) document in Chattogram, Bangladesh.

The Indian delegation, consisting of six members and led by Pradip Kumar, IPS, Inspector General of BSF Frontier Meghalaya, actively participated in the conference. On the Bangladeshi side, the delegation was led by MD Shazedur Rahman, Additional Director General and Region Commander of South-East Region BGB, Chattogram.

Throughout the conference, particular attention was dedicated to a wide array of subjects, including insurgent activities, various transborder criminal activities such as drug smuggling, border violations, ongoing infrastructural and developmental projects, and the implementation of the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP). This collaborative effort reflects a commitment to address critical issues and enhance cooperation between the two border forces.

The Frontier Headquarters of Border Security Force in Salbagan Tripura said in a statement, "During the conference, various issues of bilateral interest which would pave the way for enhancing the understanding and increased cooperation between both the Border Guarding Forces were discussed at length.”

"Issues related to confidence building amongst the local population on either side with enhanced cooperation and understanding between the troops of both the border guarding forces were also discussed," the statement added.

Both delegations made concerted efforts to foster an atmosphere of tranquility and reinforce the foundations of friendship, mutual trust, and cooperation.

"During the deliberations at the conference, leaders of both the delegations were able to jointly evolve viable solutions to various bilateral issues being confronted by both the Forces while ensuring the creation of an environment of peace and tranquility along the international boundary and to further strengthening the bond of friendship, mutual trust and co-operation," the statement said.

In the meantime, Pradip Kumar, the head of the BSF delegation and Inspector General of BSF Meghalaya Frontier, expressed his gratitude to the BD delegation for hosting the conference and conducting result-oriented deliberations, which successfully concluded with agreements on matters of mutual interest.

Furthermore, as per the statement, Shazedur Rahman emphasized the sincere commitment of the Border Guards Bangladesh to maintaining peace and harmony along the International Boundary and strengthening the already robust and cordial relations between the two elite border guarding forces.

Significantly, the border guarding forces of India and Bangladesh have reached new heights in their burgeoning friendly relationship by participating in various coordination meetings at different levels.

"Over the past few years, BSF and BGB have not only cemented their bond of friendship but have also embarked upon the high pedestals of mutual trust and cooperation for resolving the bilateral border issues through meaningful dialogues at various command levels," the statement added.

Image source: ANI