Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to New York later this month, where he will address the United Nations General Assembly. The visit will also include a series of bilateral meetings, but one notable absence on the agenda appears to be a meeting with Bangladesh’s interim government chief, Muhammad Yunus.
This decision comes in the wake of recent comments made by Yunus, which have reportedly raised concerns in New Delhi. In an interview with PTI, Yunus urged India to abandon the narrative that only Sheikh Hasina’s leadership ensures stability in Bangladesh. He suggested that India should not view all political factions in Bangladesh as Islamist, emphasizing that Bangladesh, like any other nation, has its own unique path.
This statement has been interpreted as a challenge to India’s perception of Bangladesh’s political landscape. While Yunus has assured India of his commitment to protecting minorities, his comments on the ‘narrative’ surrounding Bangladesh’s politics have seemingly strained relations.
The potential meeting with Yunus has been a subject of much discussion. In early September, Bangladesh officially requested a meeting between Yunus and Modi. However, sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the meeting is now unlikely, particularly given the recent context.
It’s worth noting that Modi and Yunus held a phone conversation in August, where Modi reaffirmed India’s support for a democratic and stable Bangladesh. Yunus, in turn, pledged to prioritize the safety and security of minorities in the country.
However, the recent ‘narrative’ comment by Yunus has reportedly shifted the dynamics of the relationship. While India remains committed to a stable and prosperous Bangladesh, the potential meeting with Yunus now seems unlikely.
Beyond Bangladesh, Modi’s US visit is packed with important engagements. He will participate in the Quad Summit, a strategic partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, hosted by US President Joe Biden in Wilmington, Delaware. Additionally, he will address the ‘Summit of the Future’ at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Modi’s visit to the United States signifies the ongoing commitment to strengthening international partnerships and engaging in global discussions on critical issues. While the potential meeting with Yunus remains a point of contention, it is clear that Modi’s US visit is set to be a pivotal moment in India’s diplomatic landscape.
