Dhaka, Dec. 23 -- Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said Tuesday Bangladesh manages its ties with India by keeping economic interests distinct from political rhetoric, with trade-related decisions driven by competitiveness and national interest rather than diplomacy.

"Our trade policy is not driven by political considerations. If importing rice from India is cheaper than sourcing it from Vietnam or elsewhere, then it makes economic sense to buy from India," he said while talking to reporters after a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase.

He said Bangladesh would import essentials such as rice from India if prices remain competitive, regardless of the prevailing political discourse between the two neighbours,...