Bangladesh and India Aim for Stronger Ties Without Past Mistakes

Humayun Kobir, the Foreign Affairs Adviser to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has emphasised a renewed focus on building ties with India that transcend individual leaders and political parties. Speaking on April 6, 2026, Kobir articulated the vision for a relationship centered on 'people-to-people' connections, highlighting the necessity of avoiding the errors of past diplomatic engagements.

The comments came following a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, where discussions included collaboration on energy supply via the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline. Recently, India delivered 5,000 metric tonnes of high-speed diesel to Bangladesh. The energy partnership has become increasingly critical, particularly in light of rising energy demands amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Kobir is set to accompany Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on his upcoming visit to India, scheduled to begin on April 7, 2026. This will mark the first visit at the Foreign Minister level from Bangladesh since the government transition from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration in August 2024, which occurred amid public unrest and protests.

Kobir remarked, 'We have to create a new space for a new relation because Hasina-India relation will no longer be possible. Hasina is a spent force in Bangladesh and her influence is non-existent.'

He noted the importance of increasing exchanges between political parties and bureaucratic officials to address 'difficult issues' and prevent misunderstandings that have marred bilateral relations in the past.

The forthcoming meeting, described as a crucial first step in this new diplomatic chapter, comes against the backdrop of historically tense interactions characterised by events such as the mob attacks on Indian missions in Bangladesh during Hasina's tenure. Despite the improvement efforts, there remain sensitive issues to address.

Reports indicate that the Bangladeshi delegation plans to discuss several critical topics with Indian officials, including the renewal of the Ganga water treaty, energy cooperation strategies, and the lifting of restrictions placed by India on the use of its ports and airports for Bangladeshi exports during the first half of 2025.

Additionally, the Bangladeshi officials are anticipated to advocate for a reduction in incidents of border firing against civilians. While Indian authorities assert that such incidents are aimed at curbing smuggling and criminal activity, officials in Bangladesh argue that individuals should be apprehended and processed through proper legal channels rather than being subjected to gunfire.

The dialogue reflects a concerted effort by both nations to rebuild a foundation based on mutual respect and shared interests, paving the way for a more stable and cooperative partnership in the future.