The foreign ministry stated that this decision will lead to a "greater well-being of the people in the area". Mahmud made these remarks at 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 experience an abundance of water during the monsoon season and scarcity during the dry season. Mahmud believes that by taking an integrated approach to managing water resources in the entire basin, the region will be able to fully utilize its water potential. The water resources minister emphasized the importance of building a barrage in the Ganges within Bangladesh's territory to ensure a steady supply of fresh water in the southern regions and to address the impacts of climate change. He urged for the timely approval of the Teesta water-sharing agreement, stating that resolving water-related issues would contribute to development and stability in the area. Additionally, he met with Indian Minister Uma Bharati on Monday, as confirmed by the foreign ministry. Bharati reassured that India would not undertake any river interlinking projects that could negatively impact Bangladesh, and she agreed to participate in the upcoming JRC meeting in Bangladesh.