Bangladesh Seeks Ties Reset as Tarique Rahman Greets Modi

Bangladesh is seeking to reset its relationship with India following a period of strained ties under the interim administration of Muhammad Yunus. On September 17, 2026, Tarique Rahman, Prime Minister of Bangladesh, extended birthday greetings to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 76th birthday. Modi responded by thanking Rahman for the wishes.

Simultaneously in Dhaka, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with Mahdi Amin, Adviser to the Bangladesh Prime Minister. The officials discussed expanding cooperation in education, health, sports, culture, tourism, and science and technology, while seeking to increase trade and investment. Both parties agreed to elevate the partnership based on mutual respect, equality, and justice.

Despite these diplomatic gestures, significant friction remains. During the meeting, Amin urged the Indian envoy to ensure that "fugitive allies of fascism and convicted criminals" residing in India do not attempt to create instability in Bangladesh. Dhaka continues to seek the extradition of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in India.