'I'm an eternal optimist': Navy chief on Bangladesh; refrains from calling it 'anything other than a friend'

Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi expressed confidence that India's relationship with Bangladesh will improve, referring to the nation as a "friend" despite current political strains. He recalled warm hospitality during his visit and hopes for a positive turn after Bangladesh's February 2026 parliamentary elections.Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi expressed confidence that India's relationship with Bangladesh will improve, referring to the nation as a "friend" despite current political strains. He recalled warm hospitality during his visit and hopes for a positive turn after Bangladesh's February 2026 parliamentary elections.