Dinesh Trivedi Made High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh: A Tactical Diplomatic Change.

Overview

The new High Commissioner of India, Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed to Bangladesh and this is a remarkable move in the Indian diplomatic policy. The relocation indicates the desire of New Delhi to enhance the political involvement in Dhaka, not only through the traditional bureaucratic paths.

An Exit of a more traditional diplomacy.

Traditionally, key diplomatic postings are held by Indian Foreign Service officers. The appointment of Trivedi is an indication of a shift in the strategy of India whereby it focuses on political-level diplomacy. It points at the increasing role played by Bangladesh in Indian foreign policy, particularly insofar as regional stability and engagement with the region is concerned.

Practice and Political experience.

Dinesh Trivedi will offer a wide range of administrative and political experience. He is a former Minister of State of Health and Family Welfare and Union Railway Minister. Having been a Member of Parliament representing the West Bengal region, his familiarity with the region, especially border matters, is a plus to his diplomacy.

Strategic Significance of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is also one of the regions of close cooperation between India because of geographical position, cultural interconnections, and economic interdependence. The longest land border between India and the two countries is 4,000 km. Cooperation is across trade, connectivity, water-sharing and security. The involvement of the present leadership in Dhaka under the leadership of Tarique Rahman is very important to maintain the bilateral momentum.

Future Focus Areas

As a High Commissioner, Trivedi must make a priority:

• Expanding trade and linkage projects.
• Management and coordination of security at the border.
• Resolution of water-sharing issues
• Enhancing political and diplomatic dialogue.

His appointment is indicative of a more direct and flexible model of diplomatic engagements.

Exam-Focused Key Points

• High Commissioner to Bangladesh: Dinesh Trivedi.
• The roles of career diplomats change to political appointees.
• IndiaBangladesh border 4,000 +km.
• High Commissioners are appointed in Commonwealth nations.
• Emphasize trade, connectivity and border cooperation.

MCQ

Q1. Why not use the word Ambassador in IndiaBangladesh relations instead of High Commissioner?
B. Because of the geographical closeness.
B. Due to their commonwealth countries.
C. Due to trade agreements
D. Due to historical conflicts.

Answer: B
Explanation: Commonwealth countries are appointed High Commissioners and non-Commonwealth countries are appointed Ambassadors.