Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri arrived in Dhaka for high-level talks with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin on Monday (9 December) amidst escalating tensions between Bangladesh and India.
All eyes remain on the outcomes of these high-level deliberations, with hopes pinned on constructive dialogue amidst a climate of mistrust and unease.
The foreign secretaries’ meeting comes at a delicate juncture in bilateral relations, strained by recent incidents and political upheaval.
This visit, the first high-level diplomatic engagement since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, bears significant implications for future ties.
This marks Vikram Misri’s inaugural visit to Bangladesh as Indian foreign secretary.
According to the itinerary, he will hold private talks with Jashim Uddin prior to the formal discussions, participate in a secretary-level meeting, and attend a luncheon.
Misri is also scheduled to meet Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus in courtesy calls before returning to Delhi tonight.
Last week, Hindu nationalist groups staged an unprecedented attack on Bangladesh's mission in Agartala, citing allegations of minority persecution in Bangladesh.
In response, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma the following day, issuing a strong protest.
These developments cast a shadow over the previously scheduled meeting between the foreign secretaries, raising doubts about its feasibility.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain, speaking at a seminar in Dhaka on Sunday (8 December), acknowledged the changing dynamics post-5 August.
He stated, “We must accept that there has been a qualitative shift in relations before and after 5 August.
Embracing this reality, we should strive to move forward in our bilateral ties. I hope they will engage in fruitful discussions.”
Diplomatic sources highlight the significance of this meeting, describing it as more than a routine dialogue.
The political changes in Bangladesh since 5 August, culminating in Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, have drawn global recognition as inevitable.
However, India’s reluctance to accept these changes without resistance, coupled with its focus on minority issues, has complicated the bilateral equation.
Sensitivity of Misri’s visit is underscored by the secrecy surrounding the discussions, with both sides agreeing not to disclose specifics before the talks.
Dhaka’s officials acknowledge the unprecedented strain in relations since 5 August, exacerbated by attacks on Bangladeshi missions in Agartala, Kolkata, and Mumbai, and subsequent protests.
Despite the bitterness, Bangladesh views the upcoming dialogue as a positive step.
