The Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping and Ministry of Labor and Employment, Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain, stated that if India does not maintain good relations with Bangladesh in business and trade, it will be India that suffers the most. He emphasized that India does not provide goods to Bangladesh for free; they charge money for it. He further said, "If India decides to halt trade, so be it. They stopped exporting cattle, but that doesn’t mean we are no longer consuming cattle. If trade is stopped, India will be economically hurt."

Dr. Sakhawat Hossain made these remarks in response to questions from journalists after inspecting the Benapole Land Port in Satkhira on Saturday (December 7).

He explained that millions of people on both sides are involved in bilateral trade, and political blockades often occur. He said, "While there may be disruptions for a day or two due to political blockades, Indian traders will not allow the market to deteriorate. They will not let this trade market get ruined, so there is no need for us to worry. If trade is disrupted, it will be India that faces greater economic losses."

Dr. Sakhawat Hossain also criticized the Indian media for spreading misinformation, stating, "The damage caused by the Indian media’s propaganda is actually greater for them than for us. The people of Bangladesh want to maintain friendly relations with India, but when they see such negativity, they start to oppose India. The Indian media spreads rumors to increase their TRP ratings, but in doing so, they are distancing themselves from the people of Bangladesh."

On the matter of national unity, he said, "It is political parties that will form the government. However, in the 52 years since our independence, no political party has ever sat at the same table. But during this critical time, all parties have come together, even religious leaders. I hope that whoever comes to power in the future will continue this practice of unity during crises."

Earlier, at noon, Dr. Sakhawat Hossain arrived at the Benapole Land Port and began by inspecting the immigration facilities. He inquired whether there was any harassment of passengers traveling between India and Bangladesh. He then proceeded to inspect the baggage scanners at the customs department, the product measurement scales at the port, and various sheds within the port. Finally, he participated in a meeting at the Benapole Land Port conference hall, where he engaged in a discussion with stakeholders involved in the port's operations.