Pointing out that Rabindranath Tagore’s writings have created a firm cross-border cultural bridge, India and Bangladesh today agreed not to allow bilateral problems come in the way of a “more meaningful give-and-take” in ties. Addressing a function here to bring down the curtains on the year-long joint celebrations of Tagore’s 150th birth anniversary, visiting Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said the two countries may be divided by geographical boundaries but Tagore, through his works, has “become a representative of our common culture, unity and rich heritage.” Terming the celebrations of the Nobel Laureate’s 150th birth anniversary as “an epoch-making event” in cultural cooperation between the two countries, Mukherjee said it has “certainly strengthened bilateral relations and given a start to more meaningful give-and-take.” “India and Bangladesh are partners in a unique cultural bond and a special relationship. We may be divided by geographical boundaries … but are bound by common cultural values and hopes of a bright future,” he said. Departing from her prepared speech, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh and India may have problems as next door neighbours but “this does not mean that there is no solution to those problems”
–Pti