Both Manmohan Singh, who initiated the ‘Land Boundary Agreement’ during his tenure and Prime Minister Modi who brought it to a successful culmination in Dhaka, need to be complimented for their efforts.
The deal brings to an end, a 41 year old boundary dispute between India and Bangladesh and both the countries can now focus on development and healthy trade relations.
Boundary disputes have proven to be a barrier in the way of friendly relations between India and Bangladesh and China has seized on this thaw in relations by signing arms deals with Bangladesh.
Needless to say, this deal will now be a precursor to much better relations with Bangladesh.
Of equal significance is the fact that this is the first successful boundary dispute India has resolved with any of its neighbors since 1947. Hence, it will provide the much needed motivation to embark on negotiations with other countries too.
It will also enhance India’s image in the eyes of the rest of the world for having successfully negotiated a peaceful settlement to a sensitive issue.
