In South Asia, politics often leans more toward practical solutions than emotions. Despite some bumps in relationships between India and its neighbors, countries like Bangladesh and Nepal are eager to connect with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok this April.
Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, is working to manage complicated relationships with both India and China. Meanwhile, Bangladesh is attempting to stabilize its government after significant changes at home. For both nations, staying on good terms with India is essential in this changing landscape.
At a recent meeting, India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, updated Parliament members about relationships with Bangladesh, the Maldives, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. There’s buzz about a potential meeting between Modi and Bangladesh’s interim Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, during the summit. However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has not confirmed this, though they mentioned ongoing discussions on various issues with Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s political scene shifted dramatically after the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Her departure followed massive protests against her rule. The interim government formed under Yunus has international recognition, but domestically, opinions vary. Hasina’s exit has strained ties with India, especially since she has sought refuge there. Now, Bangladesh is under external pressures regarding issues like the Rohingya crisis, which further complicates its political situation.
Amid these tensions, Yunus has stated that Bangladesh must maintain good relations with India, emphasizing their interconnectedness. Despite the recent political turmoil, Salehuddin Ahmed, the Finance Adviser in the interim government, reassured that India-funded development projects would not be halted.
Media in Bangladesh have viewed Jaishankar’s comments about a possible Modi-Yunus meeting positively. Dhaka-based journalist Saifur Rahman Tapan noted that this meeting could help alleviate some international pressures faced by Bangladesh, especially concerning humanitarian issues involving Rohingya refugees.
At the same time, Nepal has expressed intentions to meet Modi on the sidelines of the summit. This comes as Prime Minister Oli balances Nepal’s relationships between India and China. Historically, leaders from Nepal would visit India first after taking office, but Oli chose to visit China instead, reflecting the complexity of Nepal’s diplomatic ties.
Yet, the need for collaboration with India remains significant for Nepal’s economic growth. The country’s infrastructure and energy cooperation heavily rely on its relationship with India. Former Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Ranjit Rae, believes the summit presents a valuable opportunity for both nations to address any lingering issues.
In addition to these diplomatic endeavors, India has been fostering projects in Sri Lanka, focusing on green energy initiatives. During Modi’s upcoming visit, Sri Lanka is expected to kickstart a solar power project in collaboration with India, marking a pivot toward renewable energy sources. This aligns with India’s strategy to strengthen influence in the region and support sustainable development.
As these nations navigate their complex relationships, the BIMSTEC Summit will be key in shaping future ties. The outcomes may set the tone for regional cooperation amid ever-changing political dynamics.
Check out this related article: RSS General Secretary Hosabale Warns: The Invasive Mindset Poses a Threat to Our Nation
Source linkDIPLOMACY, NEPAL AND BANGLADESH, PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI, S JAISHANKAR, SOUTH ASIA, BETWEEN FRICTION AND NECESSITY: THE INDIA FACTOR IN SOUTH ASIA'S DIPLOMACY
