Modi Wants Tarique Rahman's India Visit to Be Memorable, Envoy Says

India has signalled a positive approach towards Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's proposed visit to New Delhi, with Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the visit to be “memorable”.

The outreach comes at a time when India-Bangladesh relations remain strained, particularly over Dhaka's demand for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Rahman's possible visit to New Delhi has therefore gained importance as both sides look for ways to improve bilateral ties.

Speaking at an event hosted by the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Trivedi said Modi had emphasised the need for the two leaders to meet and assured that Rahman would receive an appropriate reception in India. He also highlighted the potential benefits of closer engagement for people and businesses in both countries.

Trivedi said differences between the two neighbours should be addressed through dialogue rather than allowing them to prevent future cooperation. He stressed that the two countries need to deal with unresolved issues while continuing to move forward.

According to the Indian envoy, trust will be essential for building a durable relationship between India and Bangladesh. He also described the relationship as a partnership between equals and acknowledged that both sides have concerns that need to be addressed.

India's “Neighbourhood First” policy was also highlighted during the interaction. Trivedi said the two countries share history, culture and aspirations and should use these commonalities to strengthen their relationship.

He also placed emphasis on Bangladesh's younger generation, saying India wants to work with the “new Bangladesh” to create greater opportunities for its youth. Cooperation in areas such as employment, economic development and people-to-people exchanges could play an important role in strengthening bilateral relations.

Trade and business ties in focus

Trivedi also called for greater cooperation between Indian and Bangladeshi businesses. He said the private sector can help create employment and economic opportunities while contributing to stronger relations between the two countries.

A delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry is visiting Dhaka to explore opportunities related to trade, investment and industrial cooperation.

India has indicated that stronger economic ties could help improve mutual understanding and support efforts to establish a more stable relationship between the two neighbours.

Sheikh Hasina extradition issue remains a challenge

The proposed visit comes against the backdrop of renewed tensions following former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's public interaction from New Delhi on August 5.

Bangladesh criticised the event and said it had affected public sentiment and could complicate efforts to improve ties with India. India's Ministry of External Affairs has said it had no role in the event and did not endorse statements made about the Bangladesh government.

Hasina left Bangladesh for India in August 2024 after violent protests that eventually led to the fall of her government. In November 2025, she was sentenced to death in absentia by a Bangladeshi tribunal over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the crackdown on protesters. She has rejected the allegations as politically motivated.

Bangladesh has subsequently sought Hasina's extradition. India has said the request is being examined under applicable law and established legal procedures.

Against this backdrop, Rahman's proposed visit could provide an opportunity for the two sides to discuss contentious issues while also focusing on trade, security, regional cooperation and people-to-people relations. Recent diplomatic contacts have indicated that both countries are continuing discussions on the proposed visit, although its final arrangements remain subject to agreement.