India and Bangladesh move towards resetting ties
Deutsche Welle
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
India and Bangladesh are taking significant steps toward repairing their strained diplomatic relations by resuming visa services, signaling a potential recalibration of bilateral ties. The decision to restart tourist visa operations in India and phase-in full visa services in Bangladesh comes after months of tension following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and violent protests in 2024. While this marks progress, experts emphasize that rebuilding trust between the two neighbors will require addressing long-standing issues like water resource disputes, trade imbalances, and political dynamics.
The suspension of visa services was triggered by security concerns, including violent protests outside Bangladeshi missions in India over a fatal lynching incident and domestic elections. Bangladesh froze Indian tourist visas in late 2025, while India had already curtailed its visa operations in Bangladesh following Hasina's ouster in 2024. The resumption of services reflects both countries' new political leaderships' commitment to resetting ties. Bangladesh's newly elected Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged a forward-looking relationship with India, focusing on mutual respect and national interests.
Analysts highlight that while the visa step is a positive development, it signals only the beginning of a trust-building process. Key challenges remain, including disputes over water resources, trade asymmetry, and the political fate of Hasina's Awami League party. Avinash Paliwal, an international relations expert, notes that domestic mistrust persists in both nations, complicating efforts to recalibrate bilateral ties. However, the strong mandates of India's BJP and Bangladesh's BNP provide political space for pursuing better relations.
The resumption of visa services aligns with broader efforts to improve connectivity and economic engagement.重启的还包括客运巴士和火车服务，以及取消部分非关税壁垒，这将有助于提升贸易和经济活动。此外，双方还计划重启搁置的合作项目，涵盖水资源共享、非法移民、反恐和边境管理等领域。
Public perceptions in Bangladesh remain influenced by historical tensions, particularly regarding India's alleged support for the Awami League. As both nations navigate
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/26/2026