Sheikh Hasina's India activities pose 'principal challenge' to Bangladesh PM visit

Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir has flagged the activities of exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India as a major obstacle to planning a visit by Bangladesh's current Prime Minister, according to statements made by the senior diplomat.

Kabir emphasized that Bangladesh requires space to exercise 'strategic autonomy' in its foreign policy decisions, signaling that New Delhi should factor in the sensitivities of the newly formed government in Dhaka. The minister's comments underscore growing friction between the two neighboring countries in the aftermath of Bangladesh's recent political transition.

The State Minister called on India to better appreciate the domestic and international challenges confronting Bangladesh's new administration. He argued that the continued presence and activities of Awami League leaders based in India would complicate bilateral relations and undermine efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations.

The remarks reflect underlying tensions as Bangladesh seeks to chart an independent course following recent elections, while managing its relationship with a key neighbor. The visit by Bangladesh's Prime Minister, once finalized, is expected to be a significant diplomatic engagement between the two South Asian neighbors.