NewKerala.com

Jaishankar's Bangladesh Visit to Boost Bilateral Ties, Says Farooq Abdullah

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah commended External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to Bangladesh for former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's funeral, stating it would boost bilateral ties. Jaishankar conveyed condolences from India's government and people, handing over a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Khaleda Zia's son, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. The visit underscores India's efforts to strengthen relations with Bangladesh ahead of its upcoming general elections in February 2026. Khaleda Zia, a dominant political figure who served three terms as prime minister, was recognized for her role in restoring democracy in Bangladesh.

Key Points: Jaishankar's Bangladesh Visit to Strengthen India-Bangladesh Ties

  • Jaishankar attends Khaleda Zia's funeral
  • Conveys Modi's condolences to BNP
  • Visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties
  • Focus on post-election partnership
2 min read

Jaishankar's visit will boost India-Bangladesh ties: Farooq Abdullah

Farooq Abdullah praises S Jaishankar's visit to Dhaka for Khaleda Zia's funeral, highlighting its role in boosting India-Bangladesh relations ahead of elections.

"Bangladesh is an old friend of ours, and we should take it forward. It will give a boost to it. - Farooq Abdullah"

Srinagar, January 1

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah lauded External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Bangladesh visit to attend former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's funeral, calling Dhaka "an old friend."

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Abduallah noted that Jaishankar's visit will boost India-Bangladesh ties.

"I am happy that our foreign affairs minister has gone there and taken part in it [Khaleda Zia's funeral]. Bangladesh is an old friend of ours, and we should take it forward. It will give a boost to it," he said.

On Wednesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his visit to Dhaka, conveyed the condolences of the people and government of India as Bangladesh mourned the passing of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He also attended the former Bangladesh PM's funeral.

In a post on X, Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah said, "HE @DrSJaishankar, Hon. External Affairs Minister, in Dhaka, conveys condolences of the people, Govt of #India as #Bangladesh mourns passing of former Prime Minister #BegumKhaledaZia, recognized her contribution to #democracy and expressed optimism to strengthen ties following democratic transition in Bangladesh thru the upcoming election (Feb 2026)."

New Delhi is looking to strengthen its ties with Bangladesh ahead of the February elections in the neighbouring country.

Jaishankar on Wednesday met Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman and Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman in Dhaka and conveyed India's deepest condolences.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "On arrival in Dhaka, met with Mr Tarique Rahman @trahmanbnp, Acting Chairman of BNP and son of former PM of Bangladesh Begum Khaleda Zia."

He said he handed over a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Tarique Rahman. "Handed over to him a personal letter from Prime Minister @narendramodi. Conveyed deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India," Jaishankar said.

"Expressed confidence that Begum Khaleda Zia's vision and values will guide the development of our partnership," he added.

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first woman PM, died on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. A dominant figure in national politics for decades, she led the country for three terms and played a key role in restoring democracy following years of military rule.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's good to see diplomacy that focuses on human connections. Condolences during a time of loss can build more trust than a dozen trade agreements. Wise move by the MEA.
A
Ananya R
Farooq Sahab is right. Bangladesh is indeed an old friend. We share so much - culture, language, history. Strengthening this bond is crucial for the entire region's stability and prosperity.
K
Karthik V
While the gesture is appreciated, I hope our foreign policy with Bangladesh also focuses consistently on resolving longstanding issues like water sharing and border management, not just around elections.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see the engagement with the BNP leadership. A balanced approach with all major political players in Bangladesh is smart long-term strategy. The personal letter from PM Modi adds significant weight.
P
Priya S
This is how diplomacy should be done - with grace and respect. Khaleda Zia was a significant leader, and acknowledging her contribution to democracy is the right thing to do. Jai Hind!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50