Bangladesh's BNP Extends Formal Invitation to PM Modi for Swearing-In Ceremony
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), poised to form the government following its decisive electoral victory, has officially invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new administration. This move underscores the party's commitment to fostering a constructive and multifaceted relationship with India, as articulated by BNP chairman Tarique Rahman.
Ceremony Details and International Guests
According to cabinet secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, the newly elected Members of Parliament are scheduled to take their oaths by February 17, though the exact date remains pending finalization. The interim government of Bangladesh will oversee the organization of the event. In addition to PM Modi, invitations have been extended to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other heads of government from Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries, as confirmed by senior BNP leaders.
This gathering marks a significant diplomatic occasion, reminiscent of the assembly of South Asian leaders during PM Modi's own swearing-in ceremony in 2014. It represents only the second time such a convergence of regional leadership will occur, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and stability.
BNP's Vision for India-Bangladesh Relations
In a formal response to Prime Minister Modi's congratulatory message on social media platform X, the BNP expressed its appreciation and outlined its foreign policy priorities. The party stated, "We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other’s concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region."
Chairman Tarique Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh's foreign policy will be meticulously crafted with the nation's interests and the welfare of its people at the forefront. When questioned by an Indian journalist, Rahman clarified, "The interests of the people of Bangladesh and country come first; we will decide the foreign policy by seriously considering their interests." He also reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing Saarc, noting that the initiative was originally launched by Bangladesh, and expressed a desire to breathe new life into the regional organization.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Rahman acknowledged the daunting challenges facing the incoming government, including a fragile economy, weakened constitutional and statutory institutions, and a deteriorating law and order situation, all legacies of the previous authoritarian regime. Despite these hurdles, the BNP remains focused on steering Bangladesh toward stability and growth.
The invitation to PM Modi and other Saarc leaders signals a proactive approach to diplomacy, aiming to strengthen bilateral and regional ties. As the swearing-in ceremony approaches, all eyes are on Dhaka to see how these diplomatic overtures will shape the future of South Asian geopolitics and the enduring partnership between India and Bangladesh.
