Meghalaya CM Calls for Resumption of Trade and Ties with Bangladesh

Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma recently emphasized the necessity of strengthening ties with Bangladesh, advocating for the urgent revival of border haats, local trade, and cultural exchanges. Speaking at the curtain raiser for the North East India Infrastructure Summit and Exhibition in Shillong, Sangma noted that local level dialogues between the two nations have already commenced despite recent bilateral strains following the political transition in Dhaka.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the current diplomatic friction is a temporary phase, arguing that long term cooperation is mutually beneficial. He highlighted that restoring traditional economic pathways is vital for the development of Northeast India. Sangma specifically pointed to the potential of the proposed corridor linking Hili in West Bengal to Mahendraganj in Meghalaya via Bangladesh, noting that improved access to the Chittagong port would significantly lower transport costs and streamline regional logistics.

While pushing for economic connectivity, Sangma acknowledged the need for balanced policy management. He stated that national security concerns, such as illegal immigration and border fencing, should be managed effectively through strict monitoring. However, he maintained that these physical security measures need not obstruct the social and cultural bonds shared by the people. Additionally, the Chief Minister addressed the broader regional climate, describing the ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur as an increasingly complex situation involving Kuki and Naga groups.