Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to embark on bilateral visits within the next three months, potentially including trips to New Delhi and Beijing. These visits aim to engage with India and China, two major economic powers in Asia, on various fronts.
Following the formation of the new government after the January 7 national election, the Prime Minister attended the Munich Security Conference in Germany in February. According to diplomatic sources, Sheikh Hasina is likely to prioritize a visit to India after the neighboring country completes its national election by the first week of June.
India's general election, the world's largest democratic exercise, is scheduled to be held in seven phases between April 19 and June 1, with vote counting on June 4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party coalition is anticipated to perform well in the election, as indicated by surveys.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud confirmed that the Prime Minister's visit to India is on the agenda but emphasized that the exact timing has not been finalized yet at the official level.
Modi, in a congratulatory letter to Sheikh Hasina after her election victory in January, expressed confidence in deepening the historic ties between India and Bangladesh under her leadership. He also reiterated India's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's development goals.
Meanwhile, if re-elected, Modi is expected to invite leaders from South Asian and Bimstec countries to his swearing-in ceremony.
On another front, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to reaffirm China's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges. Ambassador Yao highlighted the upcoming significance of Sheikh Hasina's visit to China in July, aiming to further enhance cooperation between the two countries.
During discussions, the Chinese Ambassador stressed the importance of promoting people-to-people exchanges and supporting Bangladesh's active participation in international and regional affairs, aligning with Bangladesh's Vision 2041 and aspirations for a Smart Bangladesh.
Comment: