PM seeks strong ties with Dhaka, writes to Yunus
Amid ongoing tensions between India and Bangladesh, PM Narendra Modi has emphasised the two nations’ shared history while urging Dhaka to strengthen bilateral relations based on mutual sensitivity to each other’s interests and concerns.
Modi’s outreach comes as Bangladesh has been pushing for a meeting between the PM and the country’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, on the sidelines of the upcoming BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. So far, India has not replied in affirmation.
In a letter to Yunus and the people of Bangladesh on their National Day (March 26), Modi highlighted the historical ties between the two nations, referencing India’s pivotal role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, including its support for the Mukti Bahini rebels.
“This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices, which have laid the foundation of our bilateral partnership,” Modi wrote. “The spirit of the Liberation War continues to guide our relationship, which has flourished across multiple domains, bringing tangible benefits to our peoples.”
Reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening ties, he added, “We remain dedicated to advancing this partnership, driven by our common aspirations for peace, stability and prosperity and rooted in mutual respect for each other’s interests and concerns.”
Violence against minorities in Bangladesh has been a key point of contention in recent months. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that between August 2024 and February 2025, over 2,374 incidents of violence against minorities were reported in Bangladesh, though authorities verified only 1,254 of these cases.
