BNP Plans to Invite Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman’s Swearing-In Ceremony: WION

Following BNP’s sweeping victory in the recent parliamentary elections, the party is reportedly planning to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh’s incoming Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The news was reported by Indian media outlet WION, citing BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman’s foreign affairs advisor, Humayun Kabir.

According to WION, the invitation reflects BNP’s broader effort to ease long-standing tensions between Bangladesh and India following the fall of the Awami League government in 2024. Humayun Kabir told the media, “Regional issues are a priority for us. This forms an important part of Tarique Rahman’s foreign policy vision. We aim to develop this region as a politically and economically influential area. While the swearing-in is imminent, our invitation is sincere and timely.”

Kabir described the invitation as a symbolic gesture of goodwill, saying, “Inviting someone carries the expectation of their presence. It is a clear signal of cordial intent and friendship.”

He also highlighted that the new BNP-led government intends to pursue a balanced approach in regional cooperation. Platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC are expected to be leveraged to establish a cohesive political vision for South Asia.

The timing of the invitation comes amid international congratulations following BNP’s decisive electoral win. WION noted that India views this victory as a major political shift in Bangladesh, marking the end of the Awami League’s era post-2024 political transition.

Prime Minister Modi has already extended his personal congratulations to Tarique Rahman, reaffirming India’s support for a “democratic and progressive” Bangladesh. In a message on X, Modi wrote, “I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relationship and advance our shared development goals.”

By inviting Modi, BNP signals its intent to prioritize diplomatic goodwill and regional collaboration as central pillars of Tarique Rahman’s foreign policy.