Mohammad Yunus Targets India’s North-East in Farewell Speech, Tarique Rahman Promotes Friendship – Could Tensions Rise?

Dhaka: As Bangladesh prepares for the swearing-in of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, outgoing Interim Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus has sparked concerns with statements seen as critical of India. Yunus, who assumed office in August 2024 after protests toppled Sheikh Hasina’s government, highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic potential in the “Seven Sisters” region of India in his farewell speech.

Yunus stated that Bangladesh’s open sea access could significantly influence the North-Eastern states of India and neighboring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan. “Our ports and maritime gateways are not just borders; they are key links to the global economy. Bangladesh can play a pivotal role in the economic growth of this region,” he said.

While Yunus did not explicitly mention India, his reference to the North-East signals a vision of regional influence separate from Indian control. Analysts note this continues a pattern from Yunus’s earlier visits, including China, where he mentioned the Seven Sisters region, drawing criticism from Delhi.

In contrast, Tarique Rahman, set to take office as Prime Minister, has emphasized fostering good relations with India, highlighting a potential diplomatic divergence between the outgoing interim administration and the incoming BNP government. During his 18-month tenure, Yunus had frequently expressed India-critical positions while appearing more accommodating toward China and Pakistan, creating a delicate regional context just as Bangladesh’s new government takes charge.