Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi has said that differences between India and Bangladesh can be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding. He also expressed hope that Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s proposed visit to India will take place soon.
Speaking at an event in Dhaka on August 16, 2026, Trivedi said disagreements are normal between democratic countries. He stressed that regular communication between leaders can help both sides understand each other’s concerns and find solutions.
Trivedi said India and Bangladesh share more than just a common border. The two countries have close links through history, culture, trade and regional interests. Because of these strong connections, he said maintaining a positive relationship is important for both nations.
The envoy expressed confidence that when the leaders of India and Bangladesh meet, they will be able to discuss difficult issues openly. He described both Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as leaders who are willing to communicate and work towards solutions.
His comments came after Bangladeshi officials said discussions were taking place regarding Rahman’s proposed visit to India for the BRICS summit. Officials have indicated that suitable conditions need to be created before the visit can take place.
The proposed visit has gained importance because relations between India and Bangladesh have faced several challenges in recent months. Both countries have different views on a number of political and diplomatic issues.
Trivedi acknowledged that disagreements between neighbouring countries are unavoidable. He said each country must have the freedom to protect its own national interests. At the same time, he stressed that mutual respect, dignity and open communication are necessary to maintain good relations.
One major issue affecting bilateral ties is the situation involving former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She has been living in India after leaving Bangladesh in August 2024.
Bangladesh has requested her extradition, while a special tribunal in Bangladesh has sentenced her to death in absentia over allegations described as crimes against humanity. India has said that the extradition request is being examined through the appropriate legal process.
Tensions increased further after Hasina took part in a virtual media interaction from New Delhi on August 5. Bangladeshi authorities expressed concern about the event, saying it could affect national sentiments and make efforts to improve relations more difficult.
Despite these disagreements, the Indian envoy’s latest comments suggest that New Delhi continues to see dialogue as an important way forward. A meeting between the two prime ministers could provide an opportunity to discuss sensitive issues directly.
The relationship between India and Bangladesh is important for trade, regional security, border management and economic cooperation. Both countries also have shared interests in areas such as connectivity, water resources and development.
As preparations for Rahman’s possible India visit continue, attention will remain on whether the two governments can create the right conditions for a meeting.
The proposed visit could provide an important opportunity for both sides to reduce tensions, discuss their differences and look for practical solutions. Trivedi’s message was clear: continued dialogue and mutual respect will be important for building a stronger relationship between India and Bangladesh.