"This is not a matter for the opposition leader, it depends on the government. But I sought her assistance," he told the reporters after his meeting with Sheikh Hasina at her Sudha Sadan residence in the evening.

During the hour-long meeting, the Indian minister conveyed greetings to Sheikh Hasina on behalf of Sonia Gandhi. "There were deep family relations between the Gandhi family and the Sheikh family," he said.

"I also exchanged very old memories with the opposition leader," Ayar said mentioning that it was his first ever opportunity to meet Hasina in Bangladesh.

He recalled that he was the desk officer for Economic Affairs in the Indian Foreign Ministry in 1971 and coincidentally he was posted in Brussels when Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana were also staying there in August 1975.

About the tri-nation gas pipeline, Awami League (AL) General Secretary Abdul Jalil quoted party chief Sheikh Hasina as saying: "We will support anything that is good for the country and the nation. Awami League is devoted to the welfare of the people and the country."

Indian High Commissioner Veena Sikri and Awami League leaders Saber Hossin Chowdhury and Shohel Taj MP were present during the meeting.