Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to Represent India at Bangladesh Government Swearing-In Ceremony
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected government of Bangladesh, led by Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), in Dhaka on February 17. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will accompany him on this diplomatic mission, according to official sources.
Invitations and Scheduling Conflicts
The BNP had extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the oath ceremony, along with leaders from a dozen other countries, including Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. However, there was never any possibility of Prime Minister Modi attending, as the date and time of the swearing-in clashed with his pre-scheduled bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai, which had been arranged weeks in advance.
India's Commitment to Democratic Values
The Ministry of External Affairs stated that Birla's participation in this important event highlights the deep and enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Bangladesh. It reaffirms India's steadfast commitment to the democratic values that unite the two nations. In a statement, the MEA said, "As neighbours united by a shared history, culture, and mutual respect, India welcomes Bangladesh's transition to an elected government under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, whose vision and values have received an overwhelming mandate of the people."
Prime Minister Modi's Early Congratulations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first global leaders to congratulate Tarique Rahman on social media platform X on Friday morning, shortly after it became evident that the BNP leader would form the new government with an absolute majority. Modi noted that the election results reflected the trust that the people of Bangladesh have in Rahman's leadership. Later in the day, he also became the first foreign leader to speak with Rahman, offering cooperation in efforts to fulfil the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
Positive Response from Bangladesh Nationalist Party
Significantly for India, the BNP responded positively to Modi's messages, emphasizing Bangladesh's commitment to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens. 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."
