Narendra Modi Rahman and Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Tariq Rahman have engaged in some Eid diplomacy this week, with Rahman expressing hope in a letter to Modi on Friday that the holy occasion will further strengthen the long-standing friendship and people-to-people ties between the two countries. Rahman told Modi that Eid-ul-Fitr is a precious occasion that reminds all of the enduring values of compassion, unity and harmony. “It unites the community in the spirit of celebration, sharing and generosity. I join Your Excellency in wishing that this sacred moment will bring peace, prosperity and happiness to our people and communities across the world,” Rahman said. The letter comes after Modi extended greetings to Rahman and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of Eid.
Rahman had earlier written to Modi outlining his vision for India-Bangladesh relations and said Dhaka was ready to move forward unencumbered by the past.
Rahman, who was elected overwhelmingly, made three important points in his letter of February 26. First, Rahman emphasized the “historic” relationship between the two countries, saying Bangladesh attaches great importance to its relationship with India, which shares a common history, culture and geography. Rahman said that the people of India and Bangladesh have a lot in common and have deep-rooted ties.
Secondly, as Rahman said, both countries need to resolve issues in a way that benefits ordinary people. He said in the letter that by doing so, the two countries can achieve a lot in terms of common interests. Rahman said Dhaka looks forward to advancing relations based on dignity, equality, mutual trust and respect and “sharing of benefits”.
Third, in a more personal encounter with Modi, Rahman said in a letter submitted within weeks of taking the oath that he took note of the Indian Prime Minister’s vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.” Rahman said leaders can and need to reinvigorate cooperation to ensure peace, harmony, stability and prosperity “for the longest time possible”. The Indian government has transformed this vision into a core foreign policy theme and proposed initiatives aimed at strengthening the development of partnerships with friendly countries, which is in line with India’s strategic interests. The reference to “Viksit Bharat” is of great significance.