. India has expressed strong interest in deepening its bilateral relationship with Bangladesh under the new government, emphasizing mutual respect, shared interests and mutual benefit as the foundation for future engagement.

Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Pranay Verma conveyed the message on Sunday after holding courtesy meetings with Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obayed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Describing the meetings as introductory but substantive, Verma said important discussions took place regarding the future trajectory of bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.

The High Commissioner highlighted the swift diplomatic engagement from India following the February 12 elections, noting that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a congratulatory message to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on February 13 and the two leaders spoke over the telephone the same day.

He also pointed out that Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla visited Dhaka on February 17 as the official representative of the Indian government during the swearing-in ceremony of the new administration.

During the visit, Birla held a bilateral meeting with the Bangladesh Prime Minister and handed over a letter from Prime Minister Modi.

Verma said these high-level exchanges reflected India’s desire to strengthen the multifaceted bilateral relationship, building on the historical ties between the two nations.

He added that India’s support for a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh was also conveyed during these interactions.

The High Commissioner expressed optimism about working with the new government to enhance people-centric cooperation across all sectors on the basis of a positive, constructive and forward-looking approach.