India and Bangladesh held high-level discussions on Wednesday aimed at deepening bilateral ties and reviewing defence cooperation, marking a significant step in recalibrating relations under Bangladesh’s new government. S. Jaishankar met his counterpart, Khalilur Rahman, in New Delhi to exchange views on regional and global developments and explore ways to strengthen cooperation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Humayun Kabir, was also present during the talks.

Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to engaging constructively with Dhaka’s new administration and furthering bilateral collaboration. Both sides agreed to explore proposals to enhance the partnership through existing mechanisms, with follow-up official meetings planned in the near future. The discussions also covered broader regional and global issues of mutual interest, reflecting the growing strategic alignment between the two neighbours.

In addition to the foreign minister-level talks, Bangladesh’s Khalilur Rahman held separate meetings with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, further underscoring the multi-dimensional nature of the bilateral engagement.

Also Read: PM Modi Meets Himachal Governor to Discuss Health and Agriculture Initiatives

Defence cooperation was a key focus during parallel meetings between India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, and Brigadier General (Retd) AKM Shamsul Islam. The two officials reviewed bilateral consultation mechanisms, training exchanges, capacity-building initiatives, and collaboration between defence institutes, emphasizing the longstanding security ties rooted in the shared history of Bangladesh’s Liberation War of 1971.

Verma also held talks with Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday, discussing avenues for enhanced cooperation across key sectors. India reaffirmed its commitment to a positive, constructive, and forward-looking partnership based on mutual interests and benefits.

This visit assumes particular significance as it is the first high-level engagement from Bangladesh since the BNP-led government assumed office in February 2026. Analysts note that the trip reflects a shift from the strained relations observed during the 18-month interim government, which had seen tensions over attacks on Hindu minorities and anti-India rhetoric. Both nations appear intent on rebuilding trust and strengthening their strategic and economic partnership.

Also Read: India and Poland Discuss Bilateral Cooperation in Politics, Economy, and Culture