Simla Conference begins
June 28, 1972
BANGLADESH ISSUE DOMINATES SIMLA DISCUSSION
The Simla Conference between the Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani president Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto begins in Simla, India. The conference aims at "putting an end to the conflict and confrontation that have hitherto marred their relations". It also conceives the steps to be taken for further normalisation of mutual relations. It is well understood that the Bangladesh issue dominates the discussions of the conference. Bangladesh government is being informed about the updates of the meeting on a constant basis.
Following the birth of Bangladesh and India's key role in the process, relationship between India and Pakistan is now intertwined with the resolution of the unsettled issues between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Pakistani president Bhutto has been insistent on the return of the 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war detained in India. India has been unwilling to release them without Bangladesh's concurrence. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman has reiterated that Pakistani recognition of Bangladesh must precede any other steps towards reconciliation, and he has sought the return of Bangalees detained in Pakistan immediately. He has also insisted that India must respect Bangladesh's decision on the fate of Pakistani prisoners of war. Bangladesh is determined to hold trials of the Pakistani war criminals on the soil of the country.
WHO REGIONAL DIRECTOR CALLS ON BANGABANDHU
Dr Gunarathna, South Asian director of the World Health Organisation, calls on Bangabandhu at his official residence. Bangladesh has recently joined the world health body.
RUMANIA RECOGNISES BANGLADESH
Southeastern European country Rumania today accords recognition to Bangladesh. So far 80 countries have recognised the newly-born Bangladesh. Rumania supported Bangladesh's candidacy for membership in World Health Organisation. Rumania also assures Bangladesh of its support for the UN membership.
SOURCE: June 29, 1972 issue of Purbodesh.
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