Bangladesh-India emotionally connected through shared sacrifices of 1971: High commissioner

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Monday said that the shared sacrifices of Bangladesh and India during the Liberation War of 1971 connect the two countries emotionally and remain a constant inspiration in advancing bilateral relations.

"The two countries share history, language, culture, and geography… Our ties also derive strength from the shared belief that the progress and prosperity of our two countries are intertwined," he told participants at the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Day (ITEC Day 2025).

The event was jointly organised by the High Commission of India in Dhaka and the ITEC Alumni Association of Bangladesh (IAAB) at the High Commission premises, with around 150 alumni, including government officials and business representatives, in attendance.

Verma described ITEC as India's flagship programme for human resource development and capacity-building worldwide, noting that Bangladesh, as a close neighbour and friend, is one of India's closest development partners.

He said more than 5,000 professionals from Bangladesh have undergone ITEC programmes over the years, serving as bridges of friendship and collaboration, as well as channels for knowledge exchange between the two countries.

"It is an excellent example of India's commitment to cooperation based on the needs and aspirations of partner countries. It is shaped by our belief that strengthening national capacities is the most essential element of progress and prosperity of our partners," he said.

Verma added that projects ranging from infrastructure and connectivity to community development embody the people-to-people connection between the two nations. "Today, we are also firming our ties with our alumni to renew our relationship and showcase our partnership," he said.

Instituted in 1964, ITEC has offered India's development experience and technological progress to more than 160 countries. Each year, over 12,000 training slots are provided to partner countries through more than 300 courses in premier Indian institutes across diverse fields.