Dhaka has called on New Delhi to foster an ‘appropriate atmosphere’ for credible and constructive bilateral talks ahead of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s prospective visit to India. Bangladesh has specifically emphasized resolving key sensitive issues, including the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was convicted of crimes against humanity, and the handover of suspects involved in the murder of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson A.K.M. Shahidul Karim confirmed these developments during a press briefing at the ministry on Sunday morning (August 16).
The spokesperson stated that officials from both nations had been in communication over the past few weeks regarding the arrangements for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s potential trip to India. However, the positive momentum of the preparation process was disrupted following Sheikh Hasina’s public media interaction in New Delhi on August 5, despite her conviction by the International Crimes Tribunal.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that Bangladesh is currently awaiting an official response from India. Dhaka has pressed for the active execution of the existing bilateral extradition treaty to secure the swift return of Sheikh Hasina and the suspects in the Hadi murder case.
The spokesperson reiterated that the government will pursue bilateral relations with neighboring countries and international partners grounded in sovereign equality, national dignity, mutual benefit, and non-interference in internal affairs—strictly guided by the ‘Bangladesh First’ doctrine.
