Dhaka: Senior leaders and high-level representatives from South Asian countries gathered today to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh’s newly elected government, led by BNP Chairman and Prime Minister-elect Tarique Rahman. The event marks a significant moment for regional engagement with Dhaka’s new administration.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ceremony was held at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in the capital, drawing prominent dignitaries from neighboring nations. This reflects Bangladesh’s strategic importance in the region and underscores expectations of continued cooperation under the new government.
The President of the Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, arrived in Dhaka earlier in the day to attend the ceremony. He was received at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by Foreign Adviser M Touhid Hossain. His presence highlighted the Maldives’ interest in strengthening ties with the new administration, as stated by the Maldivian high commission.
Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay attended the event at the invitation of the Government of Bangladesh. A statement from the Bhutanese Embassy emphasized Bhutan’s continued support and longstanding friendship with Bangladesh, which is marked by mutual trust and respect.
Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla represented New Delhi at the ceremony. A press release from India’s Ministry of External Affairs noted his participation underscored the deep and enduring friendship between the peoples of the two countries and reaffirmed India’s commitment to shared democratic values.
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary, represented Islamabad at the ceremony. His visit highlighted Pakistan’s intent to strengthen bilateral ties, according to the Pakistan High Commission.
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma also arrived in Dhaka to attend the ceremony. He was welcomed at the airport by Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Md Nazrul Islam and Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanashyam Bhandari, reflecting the cordial relations between the two nations.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, represented Colombo at the swearing-in ceremony. His participation reflected the friendly bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, as noted by the Sri Lankan foreign ministry.
The presence of regional leaders and senior representatives at the ceremony highlighted South Asia’s collective interest in Bangladesh’s political transition and signaled readiness to deepen cooperation with the government led by Prime Minister-elect Tarique Rahman.