In the most dramatic move in South Asian diplomacy, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has formally stated its intention to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the swearing-in ceremony of Tarique Rahman. Following an overwhelming victory in the parliamentary elections on February 12, the new leadership of Dhaka is expressing an urgent need to “reset” its often combative relationship with the neighbor.
The invitation, hailed by BNP advisers as a “goodwill gesture,” comes only a day after a “very cordial” phone call last Friday between Prime Minister Modi and Tarique Rahman.
A Strategic Outreach: As Big as the Handshake
The foreign policy team led by the adviser Humayun Kabir of Tarique Rahman has stressed that the new government sees India as crucial to the new government as a partner in turning the region into a "strong global player."
- The Invitation: Officially, the oath taking is likely to be scheduled for Monday or Tuesday (Feb 16, 17), the BNP has made it extremely clear that PM Modi is a priority invitee.
- PM Modi’s Reminder: On Friday, PM Modi went on X (previously Twitter) to laud Rahman’s “decisive victory” and reiterated India’s dedication to the “peace, progress, and prosperity” of the people of Bangladesh.
- Regional Vision: Dhaka is not only looking at India itself; the new administration intends to reinvigorate multilateral architecture like SAARC and BIMSTEC to help balance regional power and accelerate economic development.
Challenges to the "Reset"
While it’s a warm first round of outreach, a handful of thorns remain in the bilateral relationship that the “Rahman-Modi” times must contend with: The Sheikh Hasina Factor The former prime minister is still in India, and the BNP has already hinted at seeking her extradition.
Minority Safety
New Delhi is rattled by the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, an issue Rahman responded to with his pledge of an “inclusive” nation. Security Ties: India’s attention will be drawn to whether the new government retains the vigorous counter-terror cooperation of the previous regime or whether insurgent groups are given renewed room.
An A New Chapter for South Asia
For many years, there was a degree of skepticism to New Delhi’s view of the BNP as it did have historical ties with the Jamaat-e-Islami. But analysts say Rahman, who came back home after 17 years in exile, has taken a more “mature and pragmatic” view that stresses a “Bangladesh First” approach free from direct antagonism with India.
“We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect and sensitivity to each other's concerns,” the BNP said in an official statement.
