Discussion between India and Bangladesh are at an ``advanced stage” about India using Chittagong and Mongala ports.
“I cannot speculate on how long it will take. The manner of discussion on the last mile issues has been positive. I do not think it will be long. Our expectation is that it will be done soon,” the Foreign Secretary, Mr Ranjan Mathai said.
The actual implementation of the proposal will be dependent on ``commercial decisions, the Foreign Secretary added.
Mr Mathai was briefing the media ahead of the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh's state visit to Bangladesh which begins tomorrow. The Indian side has been keen to use the port. The implementation of the move will help in enhancing the economic engagement and trade between Bangladesh and the entire eastern and north-eastern India.
India and Bangladesh are also expected to conclude treaties in the areas of trade and connectivity, land boundary, infrastructure, power, environment, fisheries and textile sector, Ministry of External Affairs officials indicated.