Yunus Could Engage in Bilateral Dialogue with PM Modi at BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand
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Synopsis
The interim Bangladeshi government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has suggested the potential for historic talks with Indian PM Narendra Modi during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, highlighting the importance of mutual respect in bilateral relations.
Key Takeaways
- Muhammad Yunus hints at talks with Narendra Modi.
- The BIMSTEC Summit is set for April 2-4 in Bangkok.
- PM Modi sent a letter emphasizing shared history.
- Continued discussions on bilateral relations are underway.
- Relations have been tense since the recent political changes.
Dhaka, April 2 (NationPress) The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, has indicated the potential for historic bilateral discussions between the Chief Advisor and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the upcoming BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, according to reports from local media.
Khalilur Rahman, the Chief Advisor's High Representative on Rohingya and Priority Issues, stated that leaders from BIMSTEC member nations will deliberate on future initiatives alongside Yunus, providing an opportunity for a meeting between Yunus and PM Modi.
“We have requested India to facilitate this dialogue between the two nations' leaders... there is a significant possibility of this meeting occurring,” Rahman mentioned during a press briefing in Bangladesh before the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand.
The BIMSTEC Summit will take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from April 2-4.
On April 4, Bangladesh will formally assume the BIMSTEC chairmanship.
Recently, PM Modi sent a letter to Yunus emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, referencing the Bangladesh Liberation War as a “shared history.”
In his letter commemorating Bangladesh National Day, PM Modi reaffirmed India's dedication to strengthening ties between the two nations.
"I extend my warm greetings to you and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of National Day," the Prime Minister wrote.
"This day symbolizes our shared history and sacrifices that have formed the basis of our bilateral partnership. The essence of the Liberation War of Bangladesh continues to illuminate our relationship, which has thrived across various sectors, delivering real benefits to our citizens," he expressed.
"We are committed to nurturing this partnership, fueled by our collective aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity, and grounded in mutual respect for each other's interests and concerns. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," the Prime Minister added.
Last month, Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar engaged in a series of discussions with his counterparts from neighboring nations, including Bangladesh, during the Indian Ocean Conference held in Muscat.
"I met with Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain of the Interim Government of Bangladesh. Our conversation revolved around our bilateral relationship and BIMSTEC," the EAM shared on X following his meeting with Hossain, who is the Foreign Affairs Advisor to Yunus's interim government.
EAM Jaishankar and Hossain last convened on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York in September, marking the first high-level interaction between India and Bangladesh’s interim government following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained since the Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina was removed, prompting her to seek refuge in India.
The interim regime led by Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus has come under intense scrutiny for unfounded accusations and its treatment of minorities, particularly the Hindu community in Bangladesh. India has consistently expressed its concerns regarding these issues.
