Dhaka:

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday said India was a “good friend” of Bangladesh and the two neighbors had resolved many issues bilaterally, a day after India won a majority of votes in the general elections and secured a record fourth consecutive term.

The 76-year-old leader, who has led the strategic South Asian country since 2009, won a fifth term on Sunday in one-sided elections that saw low turnout.

“India is a good friend of Bangladesh. They supported us in 1971 and also in 1975. They protected me, my sister and other members of my family,” he said, referring to his exile while living in India for six years after the murder of his family members.

In August 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons were murdered in their home by military officers. His daughters Hasina and Rehana, who were abroad, survived the purge.

“We consider India our closest neighbor. We have many problems, but we solve them bilaterally. So I really appreciate that we have good relations with India,” he said in response to a question.

“I have good relations with all countries because that is our motto,” he added.

He said his government's main priority over the next five years would be economic progress.

He says he tries to work for his people. “With motherly love, I care for my people who gave me this opportunity. People have voted for me time and time again and that’s why I’m here,” he added.

Compared to world leaders such as former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Hasina said: “They were extraordinary women. No. I am very simple, just an ordinary person.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)