Directors General level coordination conference was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, between the border guarding forces of India and Bangladesh from July 17-21, 2022. At the conference, DG BSF Shri Pankaj Kumar Singh led the Indian delegation, while DG BGB Major General Shakil Ahmed led the Bangladesh delegation.
In a comprehensive discussion, both sides agreed to continue constructive and positive engagement at all levels to resolve different border issues amicably. They also jointly agreed to implement the decision of the conference at the ground level in true spirit. Highlights of the Joint Record of Discussions signed by both the director generals are as follow:-
(a)Joint efforts to curb trans-border crime by adopting extra precautionary measures such as increasing Coordinated Patrols, and enhancing vigilance and sincere commitments.
(b) It was agreed to remain cautious and steadfast to end smuggling through sharing real-time information and active anti-smuggling efforts in order to curb the menace of smuggling contrabands, such as narcotics (especially YABA), firearms, FICN, gold, etc.
(c)Both sides agreed to take effective steps to refrain from Violation of IB/Illegal crossing/Intrusion, smuggling, human trafficking, uprooting Border Pillars and other trans-border crimes.
In addition, the DGs agreed to constructively engage the respective higher authorities for concurrence on pending development work within 150 yards of IB. As approved by the Joint River Commission, both sides also agreed to facilitate river bank protection works along the common bordering rivers without unnecessary hindrance.
(e)In regards to trans-border insurgents groups/suspected camps both sides agreed to show zero tolerance towards any such groups/activities and take concurrent action within respective borders based on real-time information.
This was the 52nd Director General level coordination conference focused on curbing trans-border crimes and taking all necessary measures to ensure peace and tranquility along the border while building upon the mutual trust and harmony among both Borders guarding forces and countries.
DG-level talks between India and Bangladesh are held twice every year – once in India and once in Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh share a civilizational heritage and a host of factors that span virtually the entire spectrum of interaction that is possible for neighbours to have. Border Guarding Forces of both countries have established robust systems through which cooperation in Border Guarding and Border Management is being ensured.
