Bangladesh’s interim government is signaling a deliberate effort to stabilise relations with India, choosing practical economic cooperation over escalating political tensions.
Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed announced on December 23, 2025, that Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus has begun initiatives to mend strained ties with New Delhi. He noted that the administration aims to clearly separate political debates from trade decisions, focusing instead on national economic interests.
After a meeting of the Procurement Advisory Council, Ahmed said the leadership is engaging relevant institutions and figures to restore constructive dialogue with India.
“The Chief Adviser is strengthening diplomatic engagement with India and is in touch with those involved in the process,” Ahmed said.
While Yunus has not directly spoken to Indian officials, Ahmed confirmed that conversations are progressing through trusted intermediaries.
Rice Import Decision Based on Cost — Not Politics
Ahmed reiterated that Bangladesh’s trade strategy is anchored in affordability and economic benefit.
“Our trade policy is not driven by politics,” he said. “If importing rice from India is cheaper than sourcing it from Vietnam or elsewhere, it makes financial sense to choose India.”
On the same day, the government approved the import of 50,000 tonnes of rice from India, a decision described as both economically sound and diplomatically constructive.
According to Ahmed, buying rice from Vietnam would have added 10 Bangladeshi taka (about US$0.082) per kilogram, making Indian imports the more cost-effective option. He expressed optimism that bilateral relations would stabilise and avoid further deterioration.
Ties Tested by Diplomatic Tensions
The move comes at a time when observers say India-Bangladesh relations are experiencing one of their most challenging phases since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971.
Recent weeks have seen both governments summoning each other’s ambassadors, alongside protests outside diplomatic missions in Dhaka, New Delhi, and other cities.
External Influence Should Not Define Relations, Says Adviser
Responding to speculation about external interference, Ahmed warned against misreading isolated incidents as national sentiment.
“It may look like a lot is happening,” he said, noting that some statements circulating publicly are difficult to control.
He added that any attempt by outside actors to stir anti-India sentiment was harmful to both nations.
“These incidents do not represent Bangladesh’s national position,” Ahmed stressed, cautioning that such actions only complicate diplomatic efforts.