Bangladesh is set to witness a major political transition as Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman prepares to take oath as the country’s new leader on 17 February, 2026. Following a decisive two-thirds majority victory in Parliament, the BNP will formally assume power, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape.
Leaders from 13 countries, including India, have been invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony. The event is expected to draw key regional figures and global partners, highlighting Bangladesh’s diplomatic outreach under the new administration.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also received an invitation but is expected to send a senior representative due to prior engagements. The ceremony is likely to signal the beginning of a new phase in Bangladesh’s domestic governance and foreign policy direction.
PM Modi Invited, Likely to Send Representative
Bangladesh has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka. However, Mr. Modi is expected to decline due to prior commitments.
On 17 February, he will be in Mumbai for bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, followed by his participation in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Impact Summit in New Delhi.
Sources indicate that India may depute a senior representative in his place, potentially:
- Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan
- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
- Or another senior Cabinet Minister
The invitation was reportedly delivered through diplomatic channels by Bangladesh’s interim adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Which Countries Have Been Invited?
According to Bangladesh media reports, leaders from the following countries have been invited:
SAARC Nations:
- Bhutan
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
Other Invited Countries:
- China
- Saudi Arabia
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- Qatar
- Malaysia
- Brunei
Additionally, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay are also expected to visit India on February 18 for the AI Summit.
BNP’s Vision: Inclusive Governance
Following the election results, Mr. Modi and Tarique Rahman reportedly spoke over the phone. BNP Foreign Affairs Advisor Humayun Kabir stated that all regional leaders were being invited to the ceremony.
In separate remarks, Kabir emphasized that Tarique Rahman is committed to inclusive governance, aiming to bring together the best minds in the country regardless of political affiliation.
He clarified that no specific constitutional role has been finalized for Muhammad Yunus, but consultations with eminent citizens are expected in the near future.
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