The foreign ministry stated that this decision would lead to improved well-being for the people of the region. 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 relation to 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 can maximize the potential of its water resources. The water resources minister emphasized the importance of building a barrage in the Ganges within Bangladesh's borders to ensure a steady supply of fresh water in the southern region and mitigate the impact of climate change. He called for the prompt signing of the Teesta water-sharing agreement, stating that resolving water issues would contribute to the development and stability of the area. The minister also had a meeting with Indian counterpart Uma Bharati on Monday, as confirmed by the foreign ministry. Regarding the interlinking of rivers in India, Bharati assured that no projects would be undertaken that could harm Bangladesh, and she agreed to participate in the upcoming JRC meeting in Bangladesh.