This chapter examines the growing importance of deepening multimodal connectivity between Bangladesh and India in the context of regional integration and Bangladesh’s development aspirations. It argues that Bangladesh’s strategic geographic position creates strong potential to emerge as a regional transport hub, facilitating trade across South and Southeast Asia. While earlier concerns were shaped by political, economic, and security factors, the discourse has shifted toward achieving mutually beneficial outcomes. The chapter highlights that improved connectivity can reduce trade costs, enhance competitiveness, strengthen value chain integration, and expand Bangladesh’s access to India’s large import market. It reviews ongoing bilateral initiatives—including transport agreements, infrastructure development, and subregional frameworks such as BBIN—while emphasising the need for effective implementation, fair cost-benefit sharing, and institutional coordination. It concludes that addressing challenges related to infrastructure, trade facilitation, regulatory alignment, and private sector engagement is essential to leverage connectivity as a driver of economic growth, regional cooperation, and Bangladesh’s transition beyond LDC status.
Author: Mustafizur Rahman
