Modi Invitation Sparks Preparations for Prime Minister’s Delhi Visit

Preparations are underway for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s proposed state visit to New Delhi following an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Diplomatic discussions between Bangladesh and India are continuing over the timing of the visit.

India has proposed August 20 and 21 for a two-day visit during the third week of August. However, Bangladesh is considering holding the visit on alternative dates close to that proposed schedule.

Diplomatic sources said both countries are separately discussing possible dates between the third and fourth weeks of August. As of Saturday, no official announcement had been made regarding the final schedule.

Bangladesh has already begun preliminary preparations based on India’s proposed dates. However, since Bangladesh’s presidential election is scheduled for August 20, followed by the swearing-in ceremony, Dhaka is considering August 22 and 23 as possible dates for the prime minister’s visit.

Meanwhile, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi returned to Dhaka on Friday after discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The upcoming visit is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing sensitive issues between the two neighbouring countries. Diplomatic sources indicate that the issue of Sheikh Hasina’s extradition could receive particular attention during the talks.