State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir said Tuesday that Bangladesh and India are discussing a possible visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India, but no date has been finalised. Speaking to reporters at the foreign ministry, he said the prime minister would visit India, while adding that such a trip is not likely before the UN General Assembly session.

Kabir also said Bangladesh viewed positively the cancellation of a meeting of Awami League leaders in India on August 29 following police intervention. He said the relevant Indian authorities had taken steps that Bangladesh regarded positively.

Addressing fugitives and criminals who have fled between the two countries, Kabir said Bangladesh would not shelter any criminal who had fled from India. He expressed hope that India likewise would not shelter criminals who had fled from Bangladesh, stressing the need for mutual cooperation so that neither country becomes a safe haven for criminals. He also said any Boeing aircraft purchases from the United States would be based on Bangladesh’s own needs and demand, not pressure.