Topic: India and its neighbourhood- relations
Q3. Mutual trust, rather than economic interdependence, is the key determinant of sustainable bilateral ties. Evaluate this proposition in the context of India–Bangladesh relations. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
Recent fluctuations in India–Bangladesh relations amid political transition highlight debates on whether trust or economic interdependence drives sustainable bilateral ties.Key Demand of the question
The question requires evaluating the primacy of mutual trust in sustaining bilateral relations while also analysing the role and limitations of economic interdependence in the India–Bangladesh context.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly indicate evolution of India–Bangladesh ties and importance of both trust and economic linkages in IR.Body
- Role of mutual trust: Political confidence, security cooperation and handling of sensitive issues shaping long-term sustainability
- Role of economic interdependence: Trade, connectivity and development cooperation acting as stabilising factors
- Evaluation: Relative importance of trust over economic ties in times of political disruptions
Conclusion
Highlight need for a balanced approach combining trust-building with deepened economic engagement.
