Dhaka: A senior adviser to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman has said Bangladesh is seeking to rebuild ties with India on a new foundation following the recent political transition in Dhaka.
Humayun Kabir, speaking after the BNP’s decisive victory in Thursday’s parliamentary elections, said relations between the two neighbours should now be shaped by the current political mandate. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured more than a two-thirds majority, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
In an interview with Press Trust of India Videos, Kabir said New Delhi must acknowledge what he described as a new political reality in Bangladesh, noting that former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League are no longer in power.
“The people have delivered a clear mandate in favour of the BNP. The approach from India must reflect this change,” Kabir said.
Call for Non-Interference
Kabir urged India to ensure that its territory is not used for activities that could affect Bangladesh’s internal stability. He said that once such concerns are addressed, diplomatic engagement between the two countries could proceed smoothly.
India, for its part, has stated that it is examining a request from Bangladesh’s interim authorities seeking Hasina’s extradition. On November 26, 2025, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India remains committed to supporting peace, democracy and stability in Bangladesh while engaging constructively with all stakeholders.
Kabir also referred to a recent telephone conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahman, during which Modi invited the BNP leader to visit India at a mutually convenient time. Kabir indicated that Rahman would first focus on domestic priorities before undertaking international visits.
Balanced Foreign Policy
Addressing Bangladesh’s position amid growing competition among India, China and the United States in South Asia, Kabir said the incoming government would pursue balanced diplomacy.
“We will act in line with national interests and the welfare of our people. Our goal is to maintain constructive ties with all major partners without favouring any one country,” he said.
On concerns about minority safety, particularly regarding the Hindu community, Kabir rejected claims of widespread communal unrest. He maintained that Bangladesh remains committed to communal harmony, even during periods of political transition. India has previously expressed concern over attacks on minorities in the country following incidents of violence late last year.
Regional Cooperation Emphasised
Kabir underscored the importance of stronger regional collaboration, especially in counter-terrorism and intelligence-sharing efforts. He said elected governments in the region should work closely to tackle extremism and enhance mutual trust.
The BNP has announced that Bangladesh has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other regional leaders to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Tarique Rahman as prime minister on February 17.
Reaffirming the party’s priorities, Kabir said a BNP-led administration would focus on peace, economic growth and deeper regional cooperation, positioning Bangladesh as an important bridge for broader strategic engagement in South Asia.
