Bangladesh's birth reminds India of painful memories, says emotional PM

New Delhi: It was the moment of paying honour to the martyred Indian soldiers of 1971 war, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned emotional, stating that Bangladesh’s birth reminds India of painful memories.

The PM, accompanied by his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina to the Manekshaw Centre, stated, "I would like to pay respects to all those who lost their lives during the liberation battle for the betterment of humanity." Both the leaders visited the auditorium, here, for Sommanona Ceremony to honour Indian soldiers martyred in 1971 war.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi also assured Bangladesh of an early solution to the emotive Teesta water sharing issue, a pact which has remained elusive for nearly seven years.

Also Read: India, Bangladesh sign 22 pacts in various sectors; Teesa issue unresolved

It is worth mentioning that India and Bangladesh have also inked nearly two dozen agreements in strategic areas of defence and civil nuclear cooperation. The Indian PM held extensive discussions with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

What else did PM Modi say:

• I wish for a prosperous future for Bangladesh.
• The dream I dream for India, I dream that for Bangladesh too.
• India and Bangladesh are together because 140 crore people of both countries are together.
• India grateful to its martyrs.
• By not being selfish we wanted progress of the region.
• I believe that with us, all our neighbouring countries should progress as India’s progress is incomplete if done alone.
• I admire Sheikh Hasina for her courage.
• Today is a special day, a day when we remember the martyrs, who fought valiantly.
• I would like to pay respects to all those who lost their lives during the liberation battle for the betterment of humanity.