DHAKA, 27 March, 2021 (TON): Indian PM Narendra Modi emphasized fostering India-Bangladesh cooperation in trade, commerce and anti-terrorism efforts while speaking on the 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s birth centenary in Dhaka on Friday.

“We must remember that though we have similar possibilities in the area of trade and development, we also face similar threats, such as terrorism,” he said.

“The ideologies and forces behind these inhuman acts are active even today. We not only need to be alert, but also need to stay united to fight them,” Modi added.

He called the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s liberation and the milestone of 75th year of India’s independence to arrive together a “happy coincidence”.

“For both of our countries, in the 21st century, our journey over the next 25 years will be very important. We have a common heritage, we have common development also. We have common goals, and we have common challenges too,” he said.

"Both our countries have the power of democracy; we have a clear vision for moving forward. India and Bangladesh moving forward together, is equally important for the development of the entire region," he added.

Modi went on to pay homage to Bangabandhu for his vision and said, "Bangabandhu’s courage, his leadership, ensured that no power could keep Bangladesh under subjugation.”

Later, at the end, the Indian PM also announced, Subarno Jayanti scholarships for the youth of Bangladesh in an effort to boost the mutual friendly ties.