PM Modi likely to be invited for Tarique Rahman’s swearing-in: BNP signals ‘new page’ in India-Dhaka relations | India News
In a move that signals a significant shift in diplomacy in South Asia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced that it will invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman’s upcoming swearing-in ceremony.
The invitation, approved by the party’s chief foreign policy adviser, marks a major shift from years of tense relations and follows the BNP’s decisive victory in the February 2026 parliamentary elections.
VIDEO | Dhaka: Adviser to BNP President Tarique Rahman, Humayun Kabir, on how the party wants to reset ties with India, says: “This is not for the party, this is for the governments of both the countries, the government of India and also the newly elected government of Bangladesh… pic.twitter.com/7kjqS5HpTY— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 14, 2026
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Goodwill gesture for regional priority
Humayun Kabir, Joint Secretary General (International Affairs) and advisor to Tarique Rahman, shared the plans in an exclusive interview with WION. The invitation pointed out that it is the key to the new administration’s goal of making the region a strong global player.
political vision: Kabir stated that Rahman’s foreign policy focused on regional cooperation. “If you give people an invitation to participate, you expect them to participate. It’s a goodwill gesture,” Kabir said.
Multilateral focus: The new government plans to revive platforms such as SAARC and BIMSTEC in order to balance regional power dynamics and promote economic growth.
Thank you very much, Mr. @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your recognition of Mr. Tarique Rahman’s leadership in securing the decisive victory of the BNP in the national elections. This result reflects the trust and confidence that the people of Bangladesh have in us… https://t.co/hJAOguIvKZ— Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) February 14, 2026
Support for Modi-Rahman: First steps
This announcement followed a high-level phone call on Friday, February 13. During the meeting, PM Modi congratulated Tarique Rahman for his “remarkable victory”.
Modi reiterated India’s commitment to a “democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh”. Analysts see this early intervention as a smart move by New Delhi to protect its interests after the Awami League government is ousted in 2024.
Challenges of ‘reset’: The Hasina factor
Although the BNP is seeking a “reset”, Kabir acknowledged that some challenges remain; most importantly the situation surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India. The BNP leadership hinted that his continued “exile” in Delhi could create problems in future extradition or diplomatic discussions.
Timeline for transition
Following the February 11 elections, in which the BNP alliance was reported to have won more than 200 seats, the official transition is progressing rapidly:
15-16 February: Newly elected MPs are expected to take the oath in parliament.
17-18 FebruaryTarique Rahman, who returned to power after nearly twenty years of exile, is expected to be sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
The ceremony will take place at Bangabhaban and many regional leaders are expected to be in the guest list along with Prime Minister Modi.
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