During a meeting yesterday with ML Tripathy, the outgoing Indian high commissioner to Bangladesh, she said the two next-door neighbours could solve their bilateral problems through discussion.

The prime minister hoped that India will facilitate expansion of trade between Bangladesh and Nepal through the Banglabandh transit route.

Khaleda reaffirmed her optimism about strengthening ties among the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) nations leading to an enhanced volume of trade among them.

Referring to the just-concluded trade talks between Bangladesh and India, she said India could import Bangladeshi tea, garments and leather products.

Tripathy expressed his gratitude for the support extended to him during his three-year tenure in Dhaka.

He hoped that the existing good relations between the two countries will further strengthen.

"India attaches great importance to its friendship with Bangladesh," he said.

Khaleda Zia asked the outgoing envoy to convey her best wishes to the Indian prime minister.

PM's Principal Secretary Dr Kamaluddin Siddiqui was present.