Bangladesh says PM will not visit India until Hasina extradited

Bangladesh has declared that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will not journey to India until the Indian government extradites Sheikh Hasina, the exiled former prime minister. The two nations have experienced turbulent relations following Hasina's 2024 uprising, during which she fled Bangladesh. She now stands accused of crimes against humanity and faces the death penalty in her home country. Bangladesh has persistently sought her extradition.

Foreign ministry spokesperson A.K.M. Shahidul Karim dismissed media speculation about Rahman's potential visit to India next week. He expressed the need to foster a conducive atmosphere for the visit, urging India to hasten the extradition process. India has acknowledged Bangladesh's extradition request is currently under review. Rahman inaugurated his term in February and has since traveled to Malaysia and China, deviating from the norm of Bangladeshi leaders visiting India first.

Dinesh Trivedi, India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, met Rahman recently, igniting speculation about a possible reconciliation. Karim revealed that diplomatic exchanges between Bangladesh and India regarding Rahman's visit have intensified recently. However, the process was impeded by Hasina's continued media presence, despite her conviction.

The exiled leader, once a pro-democracy advocate, has vowed to return to Bangladesh in December, even if it means serving time in jail. Karim also announced the government's intention to adopt a "Bangladesh First" foreign policy, prioritizing sovereignty and refraining from interfering in other nations' affairs while seeking mutually advantageous relationships with India and other countries.