India to Resume Medical and Business Visas for Bangladeshis Soon: Advisor

Medical and business visa services for Bangladeshi citizens are expected to resume within the coming weeks, according to Humayun Kabir, the Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Advisor.

Following a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Monday afternoon, Kabir briefed reporters on the positive trajectory of bilateral discussions with India. He noted that both nations have engaged in productive dialogue regarding mutual interests, specifically expressing gratitude to India for maintaining the uninterrupted supply of energy via pipeline.

"Both sides must remain sincere to move our relationship in a positive direction," Kabir stated. "With the right mindset, we can significantly advance our ties. The current government is committed to a fresh and productive start."

The Advisor emphasized that the government's international engagements are rooted in protecting national interests, bolstered by a strong public mandate. These discussions follow a high-level meeting in Delhi on April 7, where Kabir and Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman met with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

Addressing the status of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Kabir described her presence in India as a "challenging issue," labeling her a "fugitive" following the 2024 mass uprising. He confirmed that legal discussions are underway to facilitate her return to face justice.

Visa services were largely suspended following the political transition on August 5, 2024, due to security concerns. While emergency medical visas remained limited, this new development signals a significant step toward normalizing travel for patients and business professionals.