DHAKA: India has expressed surprise over the comments by some Bangladesh political leaders on its decision of not exporting lentil, sugar and wheat to Bangladesh. Indian High Commissioner Veena Sikri told reporters "We are surprised at the comments by a number of senior Ministers over the matter."

The envoy made the observation after meeting Bangladesh Foreign Minister on Wednesday. She explained that India's decision of banning export of lentil and sugar was not for Bangladesh alone. The ban was imposed globally as India needed to address its demands, she said.

Asked when the ban would be lifted, Ms. Sikri said it would not be before the next harvest season. Regarding the imposition of countervailing duty on four Bangladeshi items — hilsa, sarees, medicine and porcelain — the High Commissioner said it was also done globally on all imports for revenue purpose.

The sudden ban on the three commodities had an adverse effect on the cost of the commodities, causing an increase in the prices of lentil and sugar in Bangladesh this week, alleged a few Ministers and a section of the traders.

Parliament debate

The Bangladesh Parliament also had an unscheduled debate over the matter as the Indian decision came through media reports.

Dhaka's support sought

New Delhi has sought Dhaka's support for Shashi Tharoor, its candidate for the position of U.N. Secretary-General. Ms. Sikri met Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Morshed Khan on Wednesday in this regard.

Mr. Khan said Bangladesh has not extended its support to anyone as yet. He proposed that the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation should have a common candidate. Dhaka would pilot such a proposal in the SAARC Ministerial meeting tentatively scheduled for next month.

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