Bangladesh against Border Fencing

Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Hemayetuddin on Wednesday said that his country was against any fencing on Indo-Bangladesh border.

He said, "All issues could be discussed in a friendly manner."

After a 45-minute meeting with Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, Hemayetuddin told reporters that border issues were discussed.

"Further discussion in spirit of understanding to resolve all issues in a friendly manner would lead to a mutually acceptable solution," said Hemayetuddin, who is in India on a two-day visit for foreign secretary level talks.

• Indo-Bangla talks will strengthen ties

Asked about the position of Bangladesh on the fencing at the Indo-Bangla border, he said, "We are sticking to our stated stand that no border fencing will take place on the Indo-Bangla border."

Hemayetuddin held consultations with his Indian counterpart Shyam Saran on Tuesday during which the two sides decided to step up border patrolling and finalise accords to bolster trade and economic ties.

It was agreed that simultaneous patrolling by Border Security Force and Bangladesh Rifles would be increased and extended to additional sectors. Bangladesh agreed to examine positively Indian proposal for patrolling the riverine sector of boundary.