A trilateral dialogue comprising of delegation from Bangladesh, Myanmar and VIF experts examined the possibilities of closer bilateral and regional ties through economic, strategic, cultural and maritime cooperation. Possibilities of strengthening regional collectiveness by creating an environment of cooperation, development and ‘single market’ zones, common border economic zones and communities was discussed. Ways to amicably resolve the Rohingya issue that was the cause of tension between and Bangladesh and Myanmar was also discussed.

A three member Bangladesh delegation led by former foreign secretary Chowdhury highlighted several of the positive developments along with the outstanding issues that remain between the two neighbours. Views on issues of connectivity corridors, economic growth zones, seamless trade and travel, BIMSTEC, borders, water, non-state actors, besides the regional issues including the role of China, Myanmar and other extra regional players were discussed.

… every stake holder for Afghanistan’s democracy, stability and progress appreciates the severe consequences of the Taliban assuming power … also understand that even in a power sharing arrangement between the legitimate, democratic Government and the supposedly reformed and accommodative factions of the Taliban, the latter, given its fanatic instincts, would have to be kept in close observation, and guaranteed intervention if necessary … in this context, there are many nuances to the Afghanistan manoeuvres which need to be considered in the background of past, present and future ...

… for the United States, pushing the Taliban to join peace talks with Kabul is paramount to ending its 17-year long involvement in the war. But perhaps Washington's biggest problem will be figuring out how to balance the Taliban's demand for a complete withdrawal of U.S. and allied forces … whatever happens there will be huge geopolitical implications …