Bangladesh is preparing for a major political transition as Tarique Rahman is set to become the country’s next prime minister. His party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), secured a strong victory in the recent 13th parliamentary elections, paving the way for his swearing-in ceremony on February 17.
Dhaka has invited leaders from across the region and beyond, including Narendra Modi, to attend the high-profile event.
Why Was PM Modi Invited to the Ceremony?
Bangladesh’s interim government has formally invited India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Tarique Rahman on February 17. The invite was sent late on Saturday night to Indian officials, just hours after regional leaders were announced to be part of the guest list. Leaders from 13 nations, including China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and others, are also expected to receive invitations for the event in Dhaka.
BNP leaders described the invitation as a gesture of goodwill, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties with neighbouring countries and signal Bangladesh’s regional outreach under the new government. A senior BNP foreign policy adviser said to Wion, “You give an invitation for people to attend, you will have expectations that they attend. A goodwill gesture…”
Will PM Modi Attend the Swearing-In Ceremony?
Despite the invitation, it is unlikely that Prime Minister Modi will travel to Dhaka for the ceremony. Indian officials indicated that Modi is already scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting in Mumbai with Emmanuel Macron on February 17, as the French president visits India for the AI Impact Summit. In light of that commitment, New Delhi is expected to send a senior representative instead, possibly the vice president or the external affairs minister, to stand in for the prime minister.
India’s careful diplomatic move reflects a desire to balance ties with Bangladesh while avoiding the appearance of rushing into renewed partnerships, even as both countries emphasise stability and cooperation.
What Has Tarique Rahman Said About Relations With India?
After his election victory, Rahman gave indications of his foreign policy approach. When asked about relations with India, he said his government would be guided by “Bangladesh First” principles. “The interests of Bangladesh and its people will determine our foreign policy,” Rahman said, signalling a balanced approach to foreign ties, including with neighbours like India, China, and Pakistan.
Earlier, Rahman had also called for unity at home, explaining that Bangladesh was entering a “new journey in a situation marked by a fragile economy left behind by the authoritarian regime.”
What Does the Invitation Mean for Regional Diplomacy?
Inviting leaders from SAARC and beyond underscores Bangladesh’s intent to rebuild its regional diplomacy as the BNP assumes power. The ceremony could bring together heads of state from countries with diverse political stances, making the event significant for South Asian cooperation.
Even if some leaders cannot attend in person, Bangladesh aims to highlight its openness to cooperation and engagement with neighbours. The invitation itself, especially to India, is seen as a symbolic step toward stabilising ties and pursuing constructive regional diplomacy in the years ahead.
