No positive response yet from India regarding Hasina’s extradition, foreign adviser says

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today said that Bangladesh has formally requested India to return Sheikh Hasina, describing her as a "convicted fugitive sentenced by the highest court of Bangladesh."

He noted that no positive response has yet been received from India and added, "Sensitive matters like this cannot be resolved quickly. We are closely observing what kind of reaction India provides."

Speaking to journalists at the Rangpur Circuit House, Touhid also addressed questions about BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, saying he had no information on when Tarique might return to the country.

He confirmed that Khaleda Zia's planned travel to London has been delayed due to a technical issue with the aircraft.

On Bangladeshi fishermen being abducted by the Arakan Army, he said, "The Arakan Army is not a state entity. Therefore, it is not possible to hold formal bilateral discussions with them. However, since our national interest is involved, the matter is being looked into seriously."

Touhid further announced that a 1,000-bed hospital funded by China, initially planned for Dhaka, will now be set up in Nilphamari. "The plan has been designed in such a way that people from the Rangpur division, as well as from India, Bhutan, and other neighbouring countries, can receive medical treatment here," he said.

Highlighting the lack of industries in Rangpur, he stressed that employment remains the region's biggest challenge. "We are moving ahead with plans to create jobs and attract investment," he added.

On the country's political future, the foreign affairs adviser said, "We want to hand over the country to elected representatives in such a condition that they can bring it to the desired position within one to one and a half years."