Prime Minister Modi and Muhammad Yunus will attend the Bimstec Summit, but a formal meeting is deemed unlikely due to current diplomatic tensions. Reports indicate that while pleasantries may be exchanged, substantive discussions are not expected. Previous requests for meetings have also faced challenges, highlighting a complex relationship between India and Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus are both scheduled to attend the sixth Bimstec Summit in Bangkok on April 3-4. Despite their attendance, reports suggest that a formal meeting between the two leaders is unlikely due to the current diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh, as indicated by sources in Hindustan Times.

While pleasantries may be exchanged during the summit events, expectations for a substantial dialogue are low, according to an unnamed source. Additionally, Bangladesh’s de facto foreign minister, Touhid Hossain, confirmed that a formal request for a meeting had been submitted; however, the prospects appear dim.

The prevailing tensions stem from various issues, including India’s concerns about the growing unrest and violence faced by minorities in Bangladesh, as well as allegations regarding the management of Sheikh Hasina’s political presence in India. A previous request for a Modi-Yunus meeting in September was also not realized.

Another complicating factor is the increasing military collaboration between Bangladesh and Pakistan’s armed forces, raising credibility concerns for New Delhi. Despite these challenges, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently met with Hossain on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference, indicating an ongoing interest in dialogue.

In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s anticipated attendance at the Bimstec Summit alongside Bangladesh’s Muhammad Yunus does not guarantee a formal meeting, reflecting existing tensions in bilateral relations. Key issues, including regional stability and military alignments, contribute to this strained dynamic. Without urgent diplomatic reassurances, the probability of constructive dialogue at the summit remains slim.

Original Source: www.livemint.com

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