Bangladesh has signaled a desire to fundamentally "reset" its relationship with India, emphasizing a shift towards bilateral discussions and mutual interests rather than an "excessive preoccupation" with its larger neighbor.
Dhaka Seeks New Bilateral Engagement
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir articulated Dhaka's new diplomatic stance, describing the past relationship during Sheikh Hasina's tenure as "uncomfortable." He stressed the need for Bangladesh to view India as "just another country" with which it seeks good bilateral relations.
"We have to get out of the India fascination," Kobir stated, advocating for a new engagement built through direct bilateral talks instead of multilateral platforms.
Context of BRICS Summit and Strained Ties
Kobir's remarks follow a period of strain in India-Bangladesh relations, particularly after Bangladesh announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman would not attend the BRICS Summit hosted by India. The invitation for Rahman to attend as chairman of BIMSTEC was extended, while a separate bilateral invitation had been in place since February. The summit concluded recently without Rahman's presence.
Adding to the tensions, New Delhi has provided refuge to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who sought asylum in India after her ouster in a youth-led agitation in August 2024.
Focus on Mutual Interests
The Bangladeshi foreign minister underscored the importance of a balanced approach, focusing on shared interests and integrating ties with New Delhi into Bangladesh's broader international engagements. He metaphorically questioned the over-reliance on India, asking, "Breakfast in India, lunch in India, dinner in India -- then when will you eat your own food?"
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to attend the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York from September 21 to September 26. While a potential meeting with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines was mentioned, Kobir noted that such high-level meetings are often decided at the last moment, with the primary focus remaining the UN General Assembly address.