NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday met Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government on the sidelines of the 6th Bimstec Summit in Thailand. In the meeting, PM Modi raised strong concerns about the safety of minorities in Bangladesh, especially Hindus, and asked the Bangladeshi government to thoroughly investigate incidents of violence against them.
PM Modi also stressed that “any rhetoric that vitiates the environment is best avoided,” as per the foreign secretary.
“Prime Minister underlined India’s concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them,” the ministry of external affairs said in a statement.
PM Modi also spoke about building a strong and positive relationship with Bangladesh, based on “mutual respect and sensitivity.” He highlighted India’s support for peace and democracy in the region.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Met Mr Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government of Bangladesh. India remains committed to a constructive and people-centric relationship with Bangladesh. I reiterated India’s support for peace, stability, inclusivity and democracy in Bangladesh.”
He added that they also discussed the issue of illegal border crossings and rising extremism, calling them a threat to regional stability.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a post on X, said PM Modi assured support for Bangladesh as it takes over the Bimstec chairmanship. He also stressed the importance of working together to tackle extremism and protect minority communities.
This was PM Modi’s first face-to-face meeting with Bangladesh’s interim leadership since the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The meeting comes amid growing concern over minority rights and democratic processes in Bangladesh.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met with Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing to discuss ties between the two countries. PM Modi was in Bangkok for the Bimstec Summit, where he was welcomed by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the government house.
After wrapping up his visit to Bangkok, PM Modi departed for Sri Lanka.
