‘If exports are stopped, not only Bangladesh, India will also be affected’
Satkhira: Brigadier General (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, Labor and Employment, said that if trade and commerce with Bangladesh is stopped, Bangladesh will not be alone, India will also be affected.
He said these things in response to questions from journalists after inspecting the development activities of Bhomra Land Port in Satkhira and exchanging views with officials and employees on Saturday (December 7) afternoon.
Regarding West Bengal BJP MLA Shuvendu Adhikari’s announcement of blocking the Ghojadanga border demanding a stop to trade with Bangladesh, M Sakhawat Hossain said, “Will we be the only ones affected, or will India also be affected? What if we become the second, third or fourth largest trading center for India. Many people also say, secondly, does India give us something for free or does it take money? If they stop trade, let them stop it.
He said, "They also banned cows, don't we eat cows now? If they want to ban them, it's their business. If they ban them, their economy will be damaged. Thousands of people are involved in this on the other side. Lakhs of people are also involved on the other side. They are doing politics, but I don't think the businessmen will support it. I don't think it will destroy such a big market. We also sometimes block for a day or two.
Regarding the Indian media's propaganda, M. Sakhawat Hossain said, "They are losing more than us because everyone wants friendly relations. However, the people of Bangladesh are standing against India due to the media's propaganda. Those in the Indian media who are doing this may be increasing their TRP. But on the other hand, they are not paying attention to the fact that it is decreasing. However, it will continue for a few more days."
In response to another question, he said, "In the last 52 years of Bangladesh, have you heard that all the parties have sat together and talked? You haven't heard it either, I am old and I haven't seen it either. We have always said that in times of national crisis, everyone is one."
Earlier, Shipping Advisor Brigadier General (Retd.) M Shakhawat Hossain inspected the activities of Bhomra Port.
Besides, in a view-sharing meeting with the stakeholders, he discussed various problems of the port authority and traders and provided necessary instructions to the concerned officials on possible solutions.
Satkhira Deputy Commissioner Mostaq Ahmed, along with various responsible persons from the land port authority, BGB, police and C&F agents were present at the time.