India, Bangladesh jointly launches rail & energy projects
India and Bangladesh have jointly inaugurated three major connectivity and energy projects funded with Indian assistance, including a railway line that will connect the northeastern states to the neighbouring country for the first time. The projects — the Akhaura-Agartala cross-border rail link, the Khulna-Mongla port rail line, and unit II of the Maitree super thermal power plant — were launched by Indian Prime Minister and Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina at a virtual ceremony. With this, India has now emerged as Bangladesh’s largest development partner, with a portfolio of almost $10 billion in grants and concessional loans. The Akhaura-Agartala cross-border rail link will connect India’s northeastern states and Bangladesh by rail for the first time. This railway link not only initiates rail connectivity but also enables better access between Bangladesh’s Chattogram port and the northeast region of India, fostering increased trade and tourism. India has reaffirmed its commitment to providing comprehensive cooperation and highlighted the ongoing development of 12 IT parks in Bangladesh supported by Indian assistance. Additionally, both nations have agreed to interlink their payment gateways, further enhancing their economic cooperation.