‘India will continue to stand in support’: PM Modi on after Tarique Rahman-led BNP victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his congratulations to Tarique Rahman after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) emerged victorious in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections, describing the outcome as a reflection of the people’s trust in Rahman’s leadership.
In a message issued on Friday, Modi said: “I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s longstanding position on bilateral ties with Bangladesh, emphasising New Delhi’s support for democratic values and regional cooperation. “India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh,” the statement added.
Modi also expressed optimism about future engagement between the two neighbours, noting, “I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals.”
The congratulatory message comes at a significant moment in South Asian politics, as the election result signals a shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Observers say India’s prompt response highlights the strategic importance New Delhi attaches to stability and continuity in relations with Dhaka.
India and Bangladesh share deep-rooted ties spanning trade, connectivity, energy cooperation, security collaboration, and cultural exchanges.
Over the past decade, bilateral relations have expanded considerably, with both sides focusing on cross-border infrastructure projects, enhanced people-to-people contact, and cooperation in regional forums.
Diplomatic analysts note that Modi’s message underscores India’s intent to maintain constructive engagement irrespective of political transitions in Bangladesh.
“India’s emphasis on democracy, inclusivity, and development reflects its broader neighbourhood-first approach,” said a foreign policy expert based in New Delhi.
The BNP’s decisive mandate is expected to shape Bangladesh’s domestic and foreign policy priorities in the coming years.
Key areas likely to draw attention include economic growth, governance reforms, and regional partnerships. India, which is among Bangladesh’s largest trading partners, is anticipated to remain a central stakeholder in these developments.
New Delhi’s outreach also signals continuity in collaborative initiatives such as power trade, border management, and connectivity corridors linking India’s northeastern states with Bangladesh.
Officials familiar with bilateral engagements say that both countries share a common interest in enhancing economic integration and maintaining peace along their extensive border.
While political developments in Bangladesh are closely watched in India due to geographical proximity and historical ties, New Delhi’s official position has consistently emphasised respect for the democratic choices of the Bangladeshi people.
With Modi’s message setting the tone, diplomatic channels between the two governments are expected to remain active as both sides explore opportunities to strengthen cooperation across sectors further.