New Delhi: In a notable diplomatic signal from Dhaka, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party is preparing to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the swearing-in ceremony of its chief Tarique Rahman after the party’s victory in the national elections.
People aware of the discussions said the BNP leadership is drawing up plans to reach out to regional leaders, with PM Modi expected to feature prominently on the guest list, as per an India Today report.
PM’s outreach call to Rahman
The move follows Prime Minister Modi’s public confirmation that he had spoken to Rahman after the election results.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Delighted to speak with Mr Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections.”
He further said, “I conveyed my best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh.”
Highlighting the relationship between the two countries, the Prime Minister added, “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.”
The message was tagged to Rahman’s official account on the social media platform.
Ceremony seen as diplomatic platform
Sources indicated that the BNP is keen to use the swearing-in ceremony as an opportunity for broader regional engagement. Invitations are likely to be extended to key leaders from neighbouring countries as part of a larger diplomatic outreach.
The initiative is being viewed as an early attempt by the incoming leadership in Dhaka to signal continuity and stability in foreign policy, especially in its ties with New Delhi.
No official date yet
There has been no formal announcement on the date of the swearing-in ceremony so far. Neither has there been any confirmation from the Indian side regarding possible attendance.
If PM Modi receives and accepts the invitation, his participation would underline the importance both sides attach to maintaining strong bilateral relations under Bangladesh’s new political leadership.