During a key diplomatic meeting in Muscat earlier this week, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar, conveyed a critical message to Bangladesh: not to “normalise terrorism.” This meeting, part of a series of talks on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference, took place on February 16, 2025, and revolved around several key regional and bilateral issues.
Jaishankar’s remarks come at a time of heightened tensions in South Asia, where terrorism remains a significant concern. With the shifting political landscape in Bangladesh following the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, Jaishankar’s comments underscore India’s push for a more united and stable region. So, what exactly transpired in this high-level meeting, and what does it mean for India-Bangladesh relations going forward? Let’s dive into the details.
The Core Message: “Don’t Normalise Terrorism”
S. Jaishankar took a firm stand during his meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor, Touhid Hossain. According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar urged Bangladesh not to normalise terrorism, a topic that has been a point of contention between India and Bangladesh for years.
Jaishankar’s message is clear: while Bangladesh plays an essential role in the region, it must not allow any form of terrorism to gain ground or become institutionalised. The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, further highlighted that Jaishankar’s position was not only a matter of bilateral interest but also vital for South Asian stability.
This statement ties into broader concerns that some factions within Bangladesh may have become more lenient or even tolerant of groups that threaten India’s security. India has always maintained a strict policy against terrorism in the region, and Jaishankar’s comments emphasised that Bangladesh should not allow terrorism to infiltrate its policies, as this would have far-reaching consequences for regional peace and cooperation.
The SAARC Discussion and Bangladesh’s Concerns
In addition to the terrorism issue, the two leaders also discussed the state of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). This organisation has been largely inactive due to tensions between member states, particularly between India and Pakistan.
Bangladesh raised concerns about the lack of progress within SAARC, a platform that was once seen as a beacon for regional cooperation. The issue was acknowledged by Jaishankar, who pointed out that it is clear which country’s actions are largely responsible for blocking the advancement of the SAARC agenda.
While the details of the conversation remain behind closed doors, it is clear that India’s position is firm: terrorism and its sponsors should not be allowed to dictate the future of regional institutions. India has long advocated for a robust SAARC that focuses on trade, development, and security. However, ongoing geopolitical tensions have stymied this vision. The dialogue with Bangladesh reflects India’s call for a stronger regional community, free from the influence of destabilising elements.
The BIMSTEC Summit: A Potential Breakthrough?
Another significant aspect of the meeting was the possibility of a high-level meeting between Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. Reports suggest that the two leaders explored the prospect of meeting during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, scheduled for April 2-4, 2025. The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which includes countries like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan, has the potential to become a platform for stronger regional cooperation, particularly in areas of economic development and technical collaboration.
The planned summit could provide the much-needed space for the leaders of India and Bangladesh to engage constructively on multiple issues. Despite India’s concerns over Bangladesh’s internal politics, including its recent treatment of minorities, particularly Hindus, both countries recognise the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic ties for the greater good of South Asia.
The Fallout from Bangladesh’s Political Instability
India’s diplomatic overtures come at a time of significant political instability in Bangladesh. Since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, Bangladesh’s interim government has faced severe criticism, particularly for its treatment of religious minorities.
In December 2024, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Dhaka to express New Delhi’s concerns over the safety and welfare of minorities in Bangladesh. Reports suggest that after Hasina’s fall, there has been an increase in attacks against the Hindu community and other minority groups, sparking tensions between the two nations.
Jaishankar’s approach during the Muscat meeting, however, was measured. While India remains deeply concerned about the situation in Bangladesh, it recognises that cooperation is crucial in the fight against regional threats, particularly terrorism. The meeting between Jaishankar and Hossain indicates that India is not seeking confrontation but rather urging Bangladesh to recalibrate its policies to prevent further instability.
What Lies Ahead for India-Bangladesh Relations?
As we look ahead, it’s evident that the India-Bangladesh relationship is at a critical juncture. Here are some key takeaways from the Muscat meeting and its potential implications:
- Dealing with Terrorism: India will continue to press Bangladesh on the issue of terrorism. The call for Bangladesh to “not normalise terrorism” is a pivotal point in ensuring that Bangladesh does not become a haven for groups that threaten India’s national security.
- BIMSTEC Summit: The upcoming BIMSTEC summit could serve as an opportunity to strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh. The meeting between Yunus and Modi could lead to new diplomatic breakthroughs, especially in the context of regional security and economic cooperation.
- Human Rights and Minority Concerns: India’s concerns over the welfare of minorities in Bangladesh will likely continue to shape diplomatic conversations. How Bangladesh addresses these concerns will play a crucial role in shaping future relations.
In conclusion, Jaishankar’s message in Muscat was a reminder of India’s unwavering stance on terrorism and regional stability. While challenges persist, particularly with Bangladesh’s political instability, the path forward involves continued dialogue, careful diplomacy, and a commitment to upholding shared regional interests.
Relevant Links for Further Reading
- Ministry of External Affairs India
- Bangladesh Foreign Ministry
- BIMSTEC Summit Details
- SAARC: The Road Ahead
Photo credit: The Indian Express
