Will continue to come down hard on terrorists: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina

DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said that Bangladesh will continue to adopt a "zero tolerance" approach in dealing with terrorism and extremism, in reassurance to India as militants use to take advantage of the porous border between the two countries.

"We will continue to adopt zero tolerance approach towards terrorism and extremism to make our borders peaceful and prosperous," she said in a joint media interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their extensive talks.

Bangladesh and India share a 4,096-km-long border, most of which is porous. In the talks, both sides agreed to find ways to enhance security cooperation.

Ties between India and Bangladesh are on an upswing ever since the Hasina government came to power in January 2009.

The Hasina government has taken steps against militants who take refuge in Bangladesh.

There has been perceptible decline in activities of Pakistan-backed fundamentalist elements in Bangladesh and Modi would like to further cement bilateral ties with the Hasina government considering India's strategic interests.

"We had very fruitful bilateral talks. Our conversations were warm, candid and forward looking. We understand each other's concerns and priorities. We discussed all aspects of our ever growing relationship," said Hasina without elaborating.

Officials said in the delegation-level talks, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in security related issues.

In her comments, Hasina said the issue of sharing of water of 54 common rivers figured in the meeting.