Dhaka, Dec. 23 -- Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed on Tuesday said Bangladesh manages its relationship with India by clearly separating economic interests from political rhetoric, stressing that trade decisions are guided by competitiveness and national interest rather than diplomatic sensitivities.

"Our trade policy is not driven by political considerations. If importing rice from India is cheaper than sourcing it from Vietnam or elsewhere, it makes economic sense to buy from India," he said.

Dr Salehuddin made the remarks while speaking to reporters after a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase.

He said Bangladesh would import essential commodities, including rice, from India as long as prices remain com...