A tentative thaw after Hasina’s exit

In their first official meeting since Sheikh Hasina’s abrupt departure, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus met on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand, marking a diplomatic reset after months of friction.

Tensions between the two South Asian neighbors had intensified since Hasina, once considered a dependable ally of Delhi, sought refuge in India following her government’s collapse. Her absence left India recalibrating its foreign policy toward Bangladesh’s new leadership, which appears increasingly open to rival regional powers.

Described as “constructive” by both sides, the meeting was more of a cooling-off period than a full rapprochement. While public statements struck a conciliatory tone, behind-the-scenes exchanges reportedly included appeals to rein in inflammatory rhetoric on both sides.

Concerns over China and Pakistan ties

India remains uneasy about Yunus’ growing ties with Beijing. His recent visit to China and invitations for investment near India’s sensitive northeast have raised alarms in Delhi, which fears potential strategic encroachment.

Bangladesh officials, however, stress these moves aim at boosting regional connectivity and development in underserved areas. Meanwhile, Dhaka’s outreach to Islamabad has further complicated India’s perception, given the fraught historical context.

Hope for stability and cooperation

Analysts view the meeting as a necessary, if cautious, gesture. India seeks assurance that Bangladesh will maintain inclusive governance and regional stability. Yunus, for his part, is navigating a delicate balance between powerful neighbors while trying to restore calm at home.

As fresh elections approach in Bangladesh later this year or early next, the path ahead for both countries will depend on pragmatic diplomacy, mutual restraint, and a renewed commitment to regional cooperation.