According to the foreign ministry, this decision will lead to the "improved well-being of the people in the area." Mahmud made these remarks during the opening of the 'Water Innovation Summit 2015' in New Delhi, which was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries and the Water Institute of India. He emphasized the importance of water in terms of security and sustainable human development. Both Bangladesh and India have an abundance of water during the monsoon season and a lack of water during the dry season. Mahmud stated that by taking an integrated approach to managing the water resources of the entire basin, the region could fully utilize its water resources. The water resources minister emphasized the importance of building a barrage on the Ganges within Bangladesh's territory to ensure a supply of fresh water in the southern region and mitigate the effects of climate change. He called for the prompt signing of the Teesta water-sharing agreement, stating that resolving water issues would contribute to development and stability in the area. The minister also had a meeting with Indian counterpart Uma Bharati, with the foreign ministry confirming the interaction. Bharati assured that any river interlinking projects in India would not harm Bangladesh, and agreed to attend the upcoming JRC meeting in Bangladesh.