Bangkok: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bangladesh’s interim government chief, Muhammad Yunus, on Friday, where he urged the Bangladeshi leader to refrain from making statements that could harm bilateral relations. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, comes after Yunus made a controversial comment regarding India’s Northeast, sparking diplomatic tensions.
This marks the first encounter between Modi and Yunus since the latter assumed leadership of Bangladesh’s interim government, following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid violent protests against her administration over the job quota issue.
During their meeting, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared that Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s strong support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, and inclusive Bangladesh. Modi emphasized the people-centered approach to the bilateral relationship, noting that cooperation between the two nations has brought tangible benefits to both sides. He also stressed India’s desire to build a constructive and pragmatic relationship with Bangladesh.
Met Mr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh. India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh.
I reiterated India’s support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh. Discussed… pic.twitter.com/4UQgj8aohf
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025
Regarding Yunus’s recent remarks on India’s Northeast, which have caused controversy, the MEA stated that Prime Minister Modi advised Yunus to avoid rhetoric that could “vitiate the environment” of the relationship. Yunus had previously referred to India’s northeastern states as an opportunity for China’s economic expansion, sparking criticism from Indian politicians.
In addition to this, Modi raised concerns about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, especially Hindus, urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure their protection and investigate any atrocities committed against them.
The meeting also covered broader regional issues. Prime Minister Modi congratulated Bangladesh for assuming the Chair of BIMSTEC and expressed hopes for further advancing regional cooperation under the forum’s leadership. Both leaders agreed to enhance consultations and work towards stronger regional integration through the BIMSTEC framework.
Modi also reiterated that all mutual issues between the two countries should be addressed through constructive bilateral dialogue, in line with their long-standing, beneficial relationship.
Yunus’s recent comments on India’s Northeast, which referred to the region as a potential extension for China’s economic influence, have drawn sharp criticism from various Indian political figures. The statement raised concerns about the implications of such rhetoric on the diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries.
