Delhi eyes ‘positive, constructive’ course for Dhaka ties
India has expressed optimism about advancing its relationship with Bangladesh under the country’s new government, signalling a willingness to deepen cooperation across sectors.
At the weekly media briefing of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi is keen to work with Dhaka for the overall development of bilateral ties. He noted that India seeks to carry forward the historic and multifaceted relationship shared by the two neighbours in a “positive and constructive direction”.
Responding to questions on whether easing visa restrictions could be an early step towards rebuilding momentum, Jaiswal said all outstanding matters would be discussed with the new administration in Dhaka in a phased manner. While he did not directly confirm an immediate policy shift, he indicated that engagement with the new government would cover a broad range of bilateral issues.
On political exchanges, Jaiswal recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had congratulated Bangladesh’s new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman following the BNP’s electoral victory. He also noted that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka on February 17 and delivered a letter from Modi reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh.
According to the spokesperson, both sides have conveyed their intent to further expand cooperation, building on longstanding historical bonds.
On consular matters, Jaiswal said discussions regarding visa and related services would proceed in stages. In a parallel development, the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi resumed issuing visas to Indian citizens from Friday, marking a step towards restoring normal services.
Earlier, Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Sylhet, Aniruddha Das, had indicated that all categories of Indian visas are expected to return to normal processing soon.
Bilateral ties had experienced strain following political changes in Dhaka in August 2024 and subsequent tensions in December. Diplomatic missions on both sides temporarily suspended certain visa and consular operations amid security concerns.
However, following the BNP’s decisive victory in the 13th National Parliament elections, signs of normalisation have emerged. Prime Minister Modi issued a congratulatory message on February 13, even before the full results were declared, and later spoke with Tarique Rahman by phone to extend his wishes and assure continued cooperation.
Although Modi was invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony, he was unable to do so due to prior commitments at the AI Impact Summit. India was represented at the event by Speaker Om Birla.
With diplomatic exchanges resuming and visa services gradually reopening, both capitals appear to be positioning the relationship for renewed engagement in the months ahead.