Thursday, February 3 2005 22:08 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: India today (Feb 3, 2005) rejected Bangladesh's charge that its decision not to attend the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) Summit was due to developments in bilateral relations with SAARC countries, saying the impact was on the entire region.

"Let me clarify. We have not sought postponement due to any developments in bilateral relations with SAARC countries. We have drawn attention to developments that have an impact on the entire region of South Asia, not just India," External Affairs Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna told reporters in New Delhi.

He also refuted the contention that India was the only country, which has raised concern over the security situation in Bangladesh.

Sarna recalled that the EU heads of missions in a statement in Dhaka on Feb 1, 2005 asked the Bangladesh Government to ensure swift action and thorough investigation into the January 27 grenade attack while voicing concern at the current violence on the streets.