“PM Modi Invited to Dhaka”: Bangladesh Extends Invitation for Tarique Rahman’s Swearing-In Ceremony

Dhaka: Bangladesh is set for a major political transition as Tarique Rahman prepares to be sworn in as Prime Minister next Tuesday, February 17, following his party’s decisive electoral victory.

The oath-taking ceremony will be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament in Dhaka. Chief Adviser of the interim administration, Muhammad Yunus, has reportedly extended invitations to leaders from 13 countries, signalling the new government’s intent to engage actively on the global stage.

According to diplomatic sources, countries invited include India, China, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives and Bhutan. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to attend the ceremony.

Bangladesh has also formally invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, New Delhi has yet to officially confirm participation, and a final decision on Modi’s attendance is awaited. Observers say the event could serve as an opportunity to recalibrate India-Bangladesh relations under the new leadership.

Rahman, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), secured a commanding mandate in the country’s first general election since the political upheaval that led to the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The BNP crossed the majority mark comfortably in the 300-member Parliament, paving the way for Rahman’s formal appointment.

Following the results, Narendra Modi congratulated Rahman on the party’s victory. In response, the BNP publicly thanked the Indian Prime Minister for his message and reiterated its commitment to democratic governance, economic progress and inclusive development. The party also signalled its intention to work constructively with India and other regional partners to promote stability and mutual growth.