Dhaka, New Delhi seek people-focused ties
Bangladesh and India have signalled a willingness to reset and deepen bilateral relations on the basis of mutual interests and benefits for their citizens, following high-level talks in Dhaka.
Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman met Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma at the Secretariat, where both sides discussed strengthening cooperation across trade, connectivity, energy and people-to-people exchanges.
According to the foreign ministry, Khalilur outlined Dhaka’s intention to build a 'forward-looking and balanced partnership' with New Delhi, emphasising pragmatic collaboration that delivers tangible benefits to ordinary citizens. Verma reaffirmed India’s readiness to work closely with the new government to advance what he described as more 'people-centric' cooperation. The two sides agreed to maintain regular and constructive engagement.
The Indian envoy also conveyed an invitation from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for Khalilur to visit New Delhi at an early date.
Bilateral ties have faced strain since the political upheaval of August 2024, when former prime minister Sheikh Hasina left the country amid mass protests. However, after the February 12 elections, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, signalling continuity in engagement.
On the same day, Khalilur held talks with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who said cooperation between China and Bangladesh is not aimed at any third country and should not be undermined. He reiterated Beijing’s support for Bangladesh’s stability and sovereignty, and invited the foreign minister to visit China.
Khalilur also underscored the importance of advancing the Bangladesh-China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and called for stronger Chinese engagement to facilitate the early repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
The parallel diplomatic engagements reflect Dhaka’s effort to balance major partnerships while prioritising national interests and regional stability.
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