"There is already an intense debate in Bangladesh on the coming election. I must admit that there is also a keen interest in India... We hope that the next general election will be truly free and fair," he said.

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by India-Bangladesh friendship Organisation at Sonargaon Hotel, Ahamed however said, "We look forward to working with whichever government the people of Bangladesh decide to elect."

He said the people in India attach the highest importance to India-Bangladesh relations. "This sentiment is shared by all, cutting across party lines."

On terrorism, Ahamed said it poses the greatest danger to the peaceful and stable existence of nation-states in today's world. It is the open and democratic societies that are most vulnerable to the threat posed by extremism and terrorism.

He said the recent blasts in Mumbai and Srinagar have once again shown the kind of destruction such elements can cause and the extent to which these elements can go to impose their views and beliefs.

"We believe Bangladesh should and can set an example to others. It is in our mutual interest to cooperate and work to curb the rise of fundamentalist and extremist beliefs," he noted.

On disputes over various outstanding issues, he said as neighbours it is natural that differences will arise but these can be resolved only through dialogue and understanding.

"Once we are committed to meaningfully working together we can hope to work for resolution of complex issues," he said.

Prof AK Azad Chowdhury, president of Bangladesh Bharat Maitri Samiti, Justice KM Sobhan, president of Bangladesh Bharat Sampriti Parishad, Maj Gen (Retd) KM Shafiullah, convenor of Bangladesh Muktijoddha Kalyan Foundation and Indian High Commissioner Veena Sikri were, among others, present.