'Interest of our people come first': What BNP chief Tarique Rahman said on Bangladesh's foreign policy on India
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 14, 2026
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Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh’s foreign policy will prioritize national interests and focus on “people first” principles, particularly in relations with India. In his first address after BNP’s landslide electoral victory, Rahman stated that Dhaka’s external engagement will remain centered on national priorities, marking a shift from previous policies under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He also called for unity among political forces to move forward, despite differing opinions.
The BNP-led alliance secured 212 seats in the parliamentary elections, reflecting a significant mandate following the 2024 uprising that led to the ouster of former PM Hasina. Rahman dedicated the victory to democracy and those who sacrificed for it, while his adviser Humayun Kabir highlighted concerns about regional radicalization, including Hindu extremism in India and extremist elements in Pakistan. Kabir stressed the need for balanced relations with all neighboring countries, including India, and called for stronger regional cooperation to counter extremism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Rahman on BNP’s victory, reaffirming India’s commitment to strong bilateral ties. While previous governments under Hasina focused on close strategic and security ties with India, Rahman’s leadership marks a potential shift in Bangladesh’s foreign policy direction. The new government aims to adopt a more balanced approach, seeking equitable relations with all neighbors while prioritizing national interests.
This political shift in Dhaka has broader implications for regional stability and cooperation. As BNP takes charge, the focus will be on how it balances its relationships with India and other countries, while addressing internal priorities like democracy and development. The outcome of this transition will be closely watched by global observers interested in South Asian geopolitics and India-Bangladesh relations.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026