PM stressed a ‘progressive and inclusive’ Bangladesh in letter to new PM: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory letter to Bangladesh’s new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasised India’s support for a “democratic, progressive and inclusive” Bangladesh, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday (February 20, 2026).

Prime Minister Modi had congratulated the Prime Minister-designate, Tarique Rahman, soon after election results on February 13. Subsequently, the swearing-in ceremony of the new PM was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who carried a letter from Prime Minister Modi.

The Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said, “The letter underlined India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh”.

“Building on the warm and historic ties between the two countries, India looks forward to further strengthening our multifaceted bilateral ties with Bangladesh,” said Mr Jaiswal. India’s support for an “inclusive” Bangladesh acquired a special significance as the latest election did not include the Awami League of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina. However, following the election, several reports have suggested that local level offices of the Awami League have reopened in different parts of Bangladesh. These are understood to be local initiatives and not pushed by the central leadership of the Awami League.