PM stressed a ‘progressive and inclusive’ Bangladesh in letter to new PM: MEA
The Hindu
PM Modi's letter to Bangladesh's new leader emphasizes India's commitment to a democratic, progressive, and inclusive future.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory letter to Bangladesh’s new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasised India’s support for a “democratic, progressive and inclusive” Bangladesh, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday (February 20, 2026).
Prime Minister Modi had congratulated the Prime Minister-designate, Tarique Rahman, soon after election results on February 13. Subsequently, the swearing-in ceremony of the new PM was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who carried a letter from Prime Minister Modi.
The Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said, “The letter underlined India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh”.
“Building on the warm and historic ties between the two countries, India looks forward to further strengthening our multifaceted bilateral ties with Bangladesh,” said Mr Jaiswal. India’s support for an “inclusive” Bangladesh acquired a special significance as the latest election did not include the Awami League of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina. However, following the election, several reports have suggested that local level offices of the Awami League have reopened in different parts of Bangladesh. These are understood to be local initiatives and not pushed by the central leadership of the Awami League.
Police search former home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor amid ongoing investigation following his arrest for misconduct linked to Epstein.
India has formally joined Pax Silica, a U.S.-led initiative focused on artificial intelligence and secure supply chains, signalling a reset in India-U.S. ties after a turbulent year. Pax Silica is aimed at protecting technology supply chains from strategic vulnerabilities — particularly amid concerns over China’s dominance in critical sectors.
Florida's Palm Beach International Airport is set to be renamed in honor of President Donald Trump, pending FAA approval.
A bitter feud delays the burial of Zambia's former President Edgar Lungu, highlighting deep political and spiritual tensions.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit India soon, emphasizing the importance of the Quad and bilateral trade ties.
Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi vows to overhaul defense strategy and combat China's coercion amid rising security threats.
Elon Musk's move to cut Russian access to his Starlink satellites over Ukraine has probably disrupted Russian forces' tactical command and restricted their offensive capacity, but the war goes on.
Trump directs the Pentagon to release UFO files amid public interest, while questioning the reality of extraterrestrial life.
The U.S. has paid $160 million of its nearly $4 billion debt to the U.N., amid concerns of financial collapse.
Kim Jong Un opens a pivotal Workers' Party congress in North Korea, outlining plans for nuclear advancement and economic growth.
Explore Deepa Anappara's novel, The Last of Earth, as she critiques imperialism and redefines exploration through diverse narratives.
Peru's new interim president faces backlash for past controversial comments on child sex, raising concerns among rights groups.
India participates as an observer in Trump's Board of Peace meeting aimed at Gaza's redevelopment, without joining the initiative.