The renewed engagement signals a potential reset in India-Bangladesh relations, with both sides expected to explore cooperation in trade, security, connectivity, and people-to-people ties in the coming months
India has expressed its readiness to rebuild and strengthen ties with Bangladesh following the formation of a new government in Dhaka. Indian High Commissioner in Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, met Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on 22 February 2026 to discuss the future of bilateral relations.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Verma said India looks forward to engaging closely with the new administration led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who took office on 17 February after his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a strong majority in the 12 February elections. The meeting was also attended by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed.
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The Indian envoy described the discussion as a courtesy call and an initial exchange of views, marking his first official interaction with the new leadership
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He stressed India’s intention to deepen people-centred cooperation across various sectors and work together in a constructive and forward-looking manner, based on mutual interests and shared benefits
Relations between the two neighbours had cooled during the previous 18-month period under Muhammad Yunus, with ties reaching their lowest point since 1971. However, recent diplomatic exchanges suggest a renewed effort to restore trust and collaboration.
Verma highlighted recent high-level contacts, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory message to Prime Minister Rahman on 13 February, followed by a telephone conversation between the two leaders. India was also represented at the swearing-in ceremony by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who held bilateral talks with the new Bangladeshi Prime Minister.
“In all these communications, we expressed our desire to build on our historic ties and strengthen our multifaceted relationship,” Verma said. He added that India remains committed to supporting a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh.
