Bangladesh says Hasina issue clouds Tarique Rahman’s possible India visit

Bangladesh prime minister Tarique Rahman’s possible visit to India depends largely on New Delhi’s handling of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, diplomatic sources told the Daily Star.

A source in Dhaka said Rahman is willing to travel to India for an early bilateral meeting, either separately or on the sidelines of the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) summit on Sept. 12-13.

“Whether Tarique Rahman visits India or not is now largely depending on how India responds to the issue of Hasina,” the source said.

State minister for foreign affairs Shama Obaed said Hasina’s Aug. 5 media appearance in New Delhi had complicated efforts to improve ties.

India has invited Rahman both for a bilateral visit and to attend the BRICS summit as a special guest. Foreign minister Khaililur Rahman said Monday that Bangladesh has not decided whether the prime minister will attend.