Quader: No deal will be signed against national interest

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Sunday stated that the government will not seal any deal with India against national interests.

“We maintain a friendly relationship with India. But if we sign any deal with them, it will be in favor of our national interest,” he said in a party program in Dhaka.

“I am telling you (people) to clarify that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cannot sign any deal with India against Bangladesh’s national interest,” he said.

The political sphere of the country is abuzz with the premier’s upcoming India visit – where she is expected to sign some agreements. It is reported by media that those are military and security deals.

Political opponent BNP is beating a drum that the deals lined up for Hasina’s signature “under the lure of Teesta water agreement” will be against Bangladesh’s sovereignty.

Obaidul Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister in the cabinet, was speaking on this issue at a party rally organised in memento of March 7, 1971 at Bangabandhu Avenue.

“BNP is speaking in favor of India to return to power,” Obaidul said. “When not in power, they fear India. We don’t favor India nor fear it.”

Describing India as a “friend in need”, Quader said the friendship between the two countries will remain for the sake of the country. “If the people don’t want it, ties with India will end.”

Source: The Daily Ittefaq