Bangladesh has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman, who is set to take oath as the country’s new prime minister on February 17. The invitation follows the BNP’s sweeping victory in the first general election held after the political upheaval that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and political heir to the BNP legacy founded by former President Ziaur Rahman, is poised to assume office after nearly two decades of his party being out of power. His return marks a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
While sources in Dhaka confirmed that invitations have been dispatched to regional and key international partners, New Delhi has not officially confirmed receipt of the invitation. It also remains unclear whether Prime Minister Modi will attend the ceremony in person.
Regional Leaders Expected; Diplomatic Signals Closely Watched
According to officials, Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh’s interim administration, has extended invitations to 13 countries, including India. Other nations invited to the Dhaka ceremony reportedly include Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives, Malaysia, Brunei, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and china.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to attend the event, adding further diplomatic significance to the ceremony. Observers note that the presence—or absence—of regional leaders will be closely scrutinized for signals regarding future alignments in South Asia.
BNP’s Electoral Triumph Reshapes Bangladesh Politics
The BNP secured a commanding 209 out of 297 parliamentary seats, while the right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami, widely regarded as politically aligned with conservative elements, captured 68 seats. Voter turnout was recorded at 59.44 percent.
The Awami League, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, did not contest the election after the political crisis that culminated in her removal in August 2024 following widespread student-led protests.
Rahman’s political comeback is particularly notable given his 17-year self-imposed exile in London. His leadership now ushers in a new phase for Bangladesh, with expectations of recalibrated domestic and foreign policy priorities.
Modi and Rahman Exchange Messages After Results
Following the announcement of election results, Prime Minister Modi held a telephonic conversation with Rahman, conveying his congratulations and reaffirming India’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties.
“I conveyed my support and best wishes as he works towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh,” Modi stated in a post on X. He emphasized the shared historical, cultural, and economic linkages between the two neighboring nations and reiterated India’s commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity for both countries.
In a separate message, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about working together to achieve shared developmental goals and deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.
Rahman Signals Balanced Foreign Policy
In his initial remarks on foreign policy after the electoral victory, Tarique Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh’s national interests would guide his government’s diplomatic approach.
“The interests of Bangladesh and its people will determine our foreign policy,” Rahman stated, adding that he does not consider any country a “master.” He indicated a desire to maintain balanced relations with regional powers including India, China, and Pakistan.
The BNP, in response to Prime Minister Modi’s congratulatory message, stated that it looked forward to constructive engagement with India, rooted in mutual respect and sensitivity to each other’s concerns.
“We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in South Asia,” the party said.
Backdrop: Sheikh Hasina’s Exile and Ongoing Developments
The political transition follows the dramatic ouster of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 amid widespread protests. She subsequently relocated to India. Reports indicate that legal proceedings in Bangladesh have led to a death sentence in connection with protest-related violence, and Dhaka has sought her extradition.
The unfolding developments add complexity to India-Bangladesh relations at a time of political change in Dhaka. Analysts suggest that Prime Minister Modi’s decision regarding attendance at the swearing-in ceremony will be interpreted as a key indicator of New Delhi’s approach to engaging the new leadership.
As Bangladesh prepares for its leadership transition on February 17, regional diplomacy, strategic interests, and historical ties will shape the next chapter in India-Bangladesh relations.
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