PM Modi Sends Letter to Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman, Extends Invitation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed a formal letter to Bangladesh's newly appointed Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, emphasizing the strengthening of bilateral ties and regional cooperation. The letter was personally delivered to Rahman in Dhaka by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This diplomatic outreach follows the swearing-in of Tarique Rahman as the Prime Minister, marking the return of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to power after a hiatus of 20 years. In his message, PM Modi highlighted the shared history and cultural bonds that unite the two neighboring nations.

Formal Handover of the Prime Ministerial Letter

Following the recent parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, Tarique Rahman assumed office as the Prime Minister. While PM Narendra Modi was invited to the swearing-in ceremony, his prior commitments at the 'India AI Impact Expo-2026' necessitated the deputation of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to represent India. During the visit, Speaker Birla handed over the official letter from PM Modi, which conveyed India's commitment to maintaining a solid and friendly relationship with the new administration in Dhaka, while the gesture is seen as a significant step in maintaining diplomatic continuity between the two South Asian neighbors.

Congratulatory Message and Recognition of Mandate

In the letter, Prime Minister Modi addressed Tarique Rahman as 'Excellency' and extended his heartiest congratulations on the BNP's electoral victory, while he noted that the appointment of Rahman as the Prime Minister is a testament to the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in his leadership. PM Modi further stated that the mandate reflects the aspirations of the citizens for peace, stability, and prosperity. He wished Rahman success in his new role, emphasizing that India values its relationship with Bangladesh as a cornerstone of its 'Neighborhood First' policy.

Key Sectors for Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation

The letter outlined a comprehensive roadmap for future engagement between New Delhi and Dhaka. PM Modi identified several priority sectors for collaboration, including connectivity, trade, technology, and energy, while he also mentioned education, skill development, and healthcare as vital areas where both nations can benefit from each other's expertise. According to the Prime Minister, the alignment of development priorities between the two countries will serve as a guiding principle for future cooperation, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach the grassroots level in both nations.

Shared Vision for Regional Security and Prosperity

Highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership, PM Modi emphasized that as two of the fastest-growing economies in the region, India and Bangladesh can act as catalysts for each other's sustainable development. The letter stressed the importance of working together to ensure regional security and mutual prosperity. PM Modi noted that a secure and stable environment is essential for economic growth, and both nations must collaborate to address common challenges. This shared vision aims to foster a partnership that enables both countries to achieve their ambitious socio-economic goals.

Official Invitation for a State Visit to India

A significant highlight of the letter was the formal invitation extended by PM Modi to Tarique Rahman to visit India. The Prime Minister invited Rahman, along with his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima, to visit India at a mutually convenient time. He assured the Bangladeshi leader of a warm welcome in India, signaling a desire for high-level personal engagement. This invitation is expected to pave the way for detailed discussions on bilateral issues and further solidify the diplomatic framework between the two countries.