Dhaka, Nov. 20 -- Bangladesh has underscored the importance of working with an "open mind" concerning security cooperation among the countries of the Indian Ocean region.

At the same time, National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman, speaking at the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) meeting held in New Delhi on Thursday, also reiterated the principles of sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.

Addressing the national security advisor-level meeting of the CSC, he said: "Bangladesh remains firm on the values and principles of the Conclave, advocating for a free, open, peaceful, secure, and inclusive region for the common prosperity of all members of the Indian Ocean region."

"And that is based on the principles of sovereignty, ...