India Urges Bangladesh to Avoid Normalizing Terrorism Amid Diplomatic Talks

New Delhi – In a crucial diplomatic engagement, India has urged Bangladesh not to normalize terrorism, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and security. The statement was made by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar during his meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain in Muscat on February 16, on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference.

Key Diplomatic Discussions in Muscat

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday that the meeting focused on strengthening India-Bangladesh bilateral ties, regional cooperation under BIMSTEC, and issues concerning SAARC. The Bangladeshi side highlighted the need to hold a SAARC Standing Committee meeting, urging India to reconsider its approach toward regional cooperation.

"Regarding whether SAARC came up for discussion or not... Yes, the matter was brought up by the Bangladesh side. It was acknowledged that everyone in South Asia is aware of which country and what activities are responsible for stymying SAARC. The External Affairs Minister conveyed that it is important for Bangladesh not to normalize terrorism," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a media briefing in New Delhi.

Geopolitical Context and India’s Concerns

The meeting in Muscat marked the first high-level diplomatic engagement between India and Bangladesh’s interim government since the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Relations between the two nations have faced challenges post-regime change, with India closely monitoring the political shifts in Dhaka.

Security and minority protection in Bangladesh have been key concerns for India. Following Sheikh Hasina’s exit, the interim government has faced widespread criticism for alleged human rights violations and targeting of minorities, particularly the Hindu community. India has consistently advocated for the protection of minorities and democratic stability in Bangladesh.

Upcoming BIMSTEC Summit and Regional Cooperation

Discussions also touched upon the upcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit, scheduled for April 2-4 in Bangkok, Thailand. During this summit, Bangladesh is set to assume the chairmanship of BIMSTEC, a regional bloc aimed at enhancing economic and security cooperation among South Asian and Southeast Asian nations.

Bangladeshi media reports indicated that the meeting in Muscat also explored the possibility of a bilateral engagement between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit. The two leaders are expected to discuss strategic and economic collaborations, as well as regional security.

India’s Diplomatic Efforts for Stability in Bangladesh

India has maintained its diplomatic outreach to Bangladesh, ensuring continued dialogue despite the political shifts. In December 2024, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Dhaka to express New Delhi’s concerns regarding minority rights and security issues under the new Bangladeshi administration.

While India continues to advocate for stability and regional cooperation, it has also stressed that Bangladesh must not tolerate or justify terrorism, given its potential impact on peace and security in South Asia.

As regional dynamics evolve, India remains committed to fostering strong diplomatic ties with Bangladesh while prioritizing security, counterterrorism efforts, and protecting democratic values in the region.