NEW DELHI/DHAKA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday conveyed Eid-ul-Adha greetings to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the people of Bangladesh, with both leaders expressing a desire to strengthen bilateral ties.
In his reply on social media, Bangladesh PM Rahman stated, "May the relations between the peoples of Bangladesh and India continue to be strengthened on the foundations of mutual respect, friendship, and goodwill."
Strained Relations
India-Bangladesh ties have been under strain since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as Prime Minister in 2024. The relationship has faced further challenges, with water sharing emerging as the latest diplomatic flashpoint between the neighbors.
Additionally, Rahman is expected to travel to Beijing next month for his first overseas visit since the formation of the new Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government. This comes despite a pending invitation from Modi and initial plans for Bhutan to be the destination of his first foreign tour.
Modi's Greetings
Extending greetings on Eid, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the shared vision of Bangladesh and India, as reflected in their national development goals, is aimed at the mutual benefit of their peoples. "The Government of India looks forward to working closely with the Government of Bangladesh to strengthen people-centric cooperation in various domains," Modi said in his letter to Rahman.
Modi further emphasized that Bangladesh and India share a deep-rooted bond built on shared sacrifices, cultural commonalities, and a mutual desire for peace, stability, and growth.
"I thank Prime Minister Modi for his very kind greetings to me and the people of Bangladesh on this joyous occasion," Rahman said in response to Modi's letter.
