The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday distanced the Government of India from former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s recent virtual media interaction, stating that the event was organised by a private media organisation and had no official involvement from the Indian government.
During the weekly media briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government neither facilitated nor endorsed the programme or the views expressed during the interaction, particularly those concerning Bangladesh’s present administration. The clarification comes after Hasina’s online press briefing attracted attention in both India and Bangladesh earlier this week.
Government Distances Itself from Hasina Event
The MEA emphasised that the programme was conducted independently by a private entity and should not be interpreted as reflecting India’s official position. Officials reiterated that the government had no role in organising or supporting the event.
The clarification follows Hasina’s virtual address, during which she discussed the political situation in Bangladesh and expressed her intention to return to the country.
India Responds to FCRA Criticism
The External Affairs Ministry also responded to international criticism surrounding India’s Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), maintaining that legislation enacted by Parliament is strictly an internal matter.
The MEA noted that many countries, including the United States, have their own legal frameworks regulating foreign funding and financial contributions.
Monitoring Regional Defence Developments
On questions related to emerging defence partnerships in the region, including cooperation involving Pakistan, Somalia, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, the MEA said India is closely monitoring developments but declined to make further comments at this stage.
Officials indicated that New Delhi continues to assess regional security developments while keeping a close watch on evolving geopolitical partnerships.
India Reiterates Commitment to Africa
Highlighting India’s engagement with African nations, the MEA said strengthening ties with Africa remains a key priority. Officials pointed to the recent Africa Day celebrations, attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, as another example of India’s continued partnership with countries across the continent.
Seafarers’ Safety Remains a Priority
Amid continuing tensions in the Gulf region, the MEA said the safety of Indian seafarers and Indian-flagged vessels remains a matter of high priority.
According to the ministry, Indian missions across the Gulf are working closely with maritime authorities, the Ministry of Shipping and local governments while operating round-the-clock helplines to assist Indian nationals. The government also reiterated its call for uninterrupted navigation through international waterways and urged all parties to avoid targeting civilian infrastructure, commercial vessels and seafarers.
