Delhi-Dhaka chill: Jaishankar flags mutual interests, common ground

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Economic Times World Leaders Forum, emphasizing the importance of mutual interests and a common ground in India's relations with Bangladesh. The remarks came as Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to India was in doubt due to the extradition issue of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Jaishankar clarified that while he wouldn't discuss potential conversations with Bangladesh, he stressed that any relationship must benefit both parties and respect each other's interests. The two countries had strained ties following Hasina's ouster in August 2024, but have since improved since Rahman took office in February 2025.

However, Hasina's audio link interaction with India on August 5th, marking two years since her removal, caused tension in Bangladesh, which sought her extradition for facing a death sentence there. Jaishankar also highlighted the need for "de-risking" in today's distorted markets, emphasizing the importance of diversifying supply chains to mitigate disruptions.

In terms of China, Jaishankar acknowledged a difficult period between 2020 and 2024, primarily due to border tensions. However, he stressed that a strong, self-reliant India, with a focus on industrialization and manufacturing, could compete with China. Jaishankar also advised caution regarding the G-2 concept (US and China), acknowledging the complex nature of the US-China relationship.