India - Bangladesh Relations Documents

Letter of the Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Tajuddin Ahmed conveying India's recognition of Bangladesh ,December 6, 1971

Dear Prime Minister,

My colleagues in the Government of India and I were deeply touched by the message which His Excellency the Acting President Syed Nazrul Islam and you sent to me on December 4, On its receipt, Government of India once again considered your request to accord recognition to the People's Republic of Bangladesh which you lead with such dedication. I am glad to inform you that in the light of the circumstances which prevail at present Government of India have decided to grant the recognition. This morning I made a statement of the subject in our Parliament. I enclose a copy.

The people of Bangladesh have gone through much suffering. Your young men are engaged in a self-sacrificing struggle for freedom and democracy. The of India are also fighting in decence of the same values. I have no doubt that this companionship in endeavour and sacrifice with strengthen our dedication to great causes and the friendship between out two peoples. However long the road and however exacting the sacrifice that our two peoples may be called upon to make in the future, I am certain that we shall emerge truimphant.

I take this opportunity to convey to you personally, to your colleagues and to the heroic people of Bangladesh my greetings and best wishes.

I should also like to take this opportunity to convey through you to His excellency Syed Nazrul Islam, Acting President of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh, the assurances of my highest esteem.