New Delhi, April 8 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar convened a meeting with his Bangladeshi counterpart Khalilur Rahman and his team in New Delhi on Wednesday, focusing on enhancing bilateral relationships, alongside discussing regional and global issues.

"It was a pleasure to host FM Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh and his delegation this afternoon. We explored avenues to strengthen our bilateral relationship across various dimensions. Additionally, we shared insights on regional and global developments and agreed to maintain close communication," EAM Jaishankar shared on X.

Khalilur Rahman arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday for a "goodwill visit," which Dhaka underscored as pivotal for establishing a more productive and sustainable framework for cooperation between the two nations.

"We warmly welcomed FM Khalilur Rahman of Bangladesh upon his arrival in New Delhi today. India and Bangladesh enjoy strong and historic ties rooted in robust people-to-people connections. This visit will significantly enhance the India-Bangladesh partnership," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed on X.

As per the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, Rahman is set to attend the Indian Ocean Conference to be held in Mauritius from April 10-12, 2026, with a stop in New Delhi along the way.

"During his stay, he will engage in courtesy meetings with India's Foreign Minister, National Security Advisor, and Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas. These discussions will underscore the stability and ongoing development of bilateral relations based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests," stated Dhaka in a release prior to the minister's departure.

"This visit is anticipated to lay a critical foundation for advancing cooperation between Bangladesh and India to more productive and sustainable levels. Notably, Humayun Kabir, Advisor to the Hon'ble Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, will accompany the Hon'ble Foreign Minister for the Mauritius conference and India visit," it further noted.

This trip holds significance as it marks the first visit to India by a Bangladeshi minister since the BNP-led government took office in February, indicating a shift in the recalibration of India-Bangladesh relations, which had become strained during the interim government's 18-month reign led by Muhammad Yunus amidst rising tensions involving Hindu minorities and anti-India sentiments.

On Monday, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, met with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, where both parties deliberated on enhancing bilateral engagement and cooperation in key sectors.

During their discussions, Verma reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties through a "positive, constructive, and forward-looking approach" grounded in shared interests and mutual benefits.