New Delhi: On Tuesday, Tarique Rahman, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), took oath as the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh, marking a new chapter in the country’s political landscape. Representing India at the swearing-in ceremony were Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
Following the ceremony, Speaker Birla met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to convey Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulations and handed him an invitation to visit India. Prime Minister Modi was invited to the ceremony but could not attend due to talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai.
Courteous Meeting with Opposition Leader
During his visit, Vikram Misri held a courtesy meeting with Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the leader of the opposition and Amir of Bangladesh Jamat-e-Islami. Misri congratulated Dr. Rahman on his new role and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of people-centric bilateral relations.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman highlighted the deep civilizational ties shared by India and Bangladesh. According to the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh, Misri expressed hope for strengthened bilateral relations under the new government.
Electoral Context
In the 13th parliamentary elections held on 12 February, the BNP won 209 out of 297 seats, while the hardline Jamat-e-Islami secured 68 seats. The outgoing Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, was barred from contesting. The election results marked a significant revival for the BNP after 15 years of Awami League governance. Nationwide student-led protests in August 2024 had previously led to the removal of the Awami League government.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.