Bangkok: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bangladesh's interim leader, Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, on April 4, marking the first formal discussions since a revolution in Bangladesh displaced New Delhi's long-term ally, Sheikh Hasina. This meeting occurred at a regional summit in Thailand and was described by Yunus' press secretary as "constructive, productive, and fruitful."

Yunus, who assumed leadership in August 2024 following the student-led uprising that forced Hasina into exile in India, has been navigating a challenging diplomatic landscape. Historically, India supported Hasina's administration, making her overthrow particularly significant for bilateral relations, which have recently soured. Notably, Yunus cemented diplomatic ties by visiting China last month, signaling Bangladesh's pivot during this period of unrest.

Modi emphasized his desire for a "positive and constructive relationship" grounded in a spirit of pragmatism. Vikram Misri, India's foreign ministry secretary, reiterated India's commitment to a "democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh." However, he voiced concerns regarding alleged incidents of violence against minority Hindus in Bangladesh, an accusation that the interim government has contested.

The persistent tensions have led to diplomatic exchanges marked by mutual barbs. During their meeting, Yunus raised grievances related to Hasina's exile, including her incendiary remarks that have exacerbated diplomatic relations. The discussions also touched on the matter of border security and water-sharing disputes regarding the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, which are critical to both nations.

Despite the political backdrop, the tone of the meeting was reported to be amicable, with both leaders displaying warmth in their engagement. Photographs shared on social media captured the leaders shaking hands and emphasizing a shared history, recalling their previous interactions, such as Modi’s 2015 award presentation to Yunus.

While discussions about the extradition of Hasina, now living in India while facing charges in Bangladesh, were raised, no substantive decisions were made. As Yunus's government prepares for elections slated by June 2026, both nations face the imperative of stabilizing relations that have historically been characterized by cooperation and mutual benefit.

For more details, visit Channel News Asia.