Time to repair ties: PM Modi invites Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman to visit India as Yunus exits scene

India has extended an early diplomatic olive branch to Bangladesh’s new leadership, with PM Modi inviting newly sworn-in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to visit India.

The invitation was personally handed over by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who attended Rahman’s swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka as India’s official representative. The outreach signals a potential reset in ties after a turbulent political transition in Bangladesh.

Birla described the meeting as productive, saying: “Just concluded a constructive meeting with Prime Minister of Bangladesh @trahmanbnp. I handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister @narendramodi conveying his wishes to PM Rahman and inviting him to visit India at the earliest convenience.”

“I extended warm congratulations on behalf of the people of India and reaffirmed our commitment to deepening the enduring partnership between our two neighbouring countries,” he added.

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A new government after years of upheaval

Rahman’s swearing-in marks a major political shift in Bangladesh.

His party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), secured a two-thirds majority in the February 12 election, returning to power after years in opposition. Rahman himself had returned from 17 years in exile in London ahead of the vote.

He assumed office nearly two years after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down following mass protests and went into self-exile in India.

Modi was among the first global leaders to congratulate Rahman after his electoral victory. In his message, Modi said: "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections. I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh."

"As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," he added.

Dhaka signals independent foreign policy approach

Despite the warm outreach, Rahman has said that Bangladesh will prioritise its own interests when shaping foreign policy.

Responding to questions on ties with India, Rahman said: “The interests of Bangladesh and its people will determine our foreign policy.”

India’s invitation, however, suggests both sides are keen to stabilise and strengthen ties following political uncertainty.