The issues of disputes between the two neighbours, as she pointed out, are: river-linking projects, sharing of Ganges water, mounting trade deficit, investment-hurdles and tariff and non-tariff barriers to export from Bangladesh.

Speaking on Bangladesh-India economic relations at a meeting organised by Economic Reporters' Forum (ERF) at National Press Club, she said the people, particularly the industry representatives, of India were very keen to further develop relations with Bangladesh, which she said was India's largest economic partner among the Saarc member-countries.

In reference to Dhaka's concern over India's river linking projects, the envoy said, "We've assured one and all that the concerns of neighbouring countries including Bangladesh will be taken into consideration and no country's interest would be ignored."

But she found Bangladesh's media to be very critical of India, which she believed was caused by misperceptions. "An information gap has created the perception gap between India and Bangladesh's media," she maintained.

Alluding to the $100-million Indian grant for poverty alleviation in other Saarc countries, Sikri said it reflected that India was committed to improve conditions of all the peoples in the region. "Then, why do Bangladesh's media try to portray India as if it wants to take steps harmful to Bangladeshi people's interests?" she wondered.

The high commissioner categorically denied any imposition of special trade barriers by India against Bangladeshi products. "All apparent tariff and non-tariff trade barriers come from technical reasons, which can be solved through mutual discussions," she noted.

On the huge trade deficit, heavily in favour of India, Sikri said 80 percent of Indian goods imported by Bangladesh were industrial raw materials, such as chemicals, yarns and fabrics. Here, these items get value-added and thus generate employment and increase competitiveness of Bangladesh's products, she added.

The newly appointed Indian envoy said the gap was gradually reducing as Bangladesh's export to India posted a 67 percent growth last year.

She also pointed out that India allowed duty free access to 79 items from Bangladesh and preferential treatment to 2,000 items. Besides, Indian industries are actively eyeing Bangladesh as a major destination for their foreign direct investment, Sikri added.

Referring to the investment data of Board of Investments, the high commissioner said India was the ninth largest investor in Bangladesh with a total investment of $405 million in 114 projects.

She envisages creation of a South Asian economic union, free movement of goods and people and a common regional currency in the near future.

ERF President Monwar Hossain also spoke in the meeting.