Title: A Critical Meeting Between PM Modi and Mohammad Yunus at the BIMSTEC Summit – What It Means for India-Bangladesh Relations, we are discussing a significant geopolitical development that took place in Bangkok, Thailand, during the sixth BIMSTEC Summit – a private meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s key political figure, Mohammad Yunus.
A Sudden Yet Strategic Interaction
While global leaders like Donald Trump are busy imposing tariffs across continents, including on penguins, a very different kind of meeting was making headlines in Southeast Asia. In Bangkok, during the BIMSTEC summit, leaders from Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, India, Bangladesh, and Thailand came together. But all eyes were on whether PM Modi would hold a one-on-one discussion with Bangladesh’s interim government advisor, Mohammad Yunus.
To everyone’s surprise, Yunus himself posted photos on social media, confirming a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi. This wasn’t just any meeting—it held immense strategic weight given recent tensions between the two countries.
Why This Meeting Matters
India-Bangladesh relations have been strained lately, particularly after Yunus made controversial remarks about India’s northeast region. His statements were strongly condemned by Indian leaders, including the Chief Minister of Assam. The Congress party also expressed serious concerns about the Bangladeshi government’s mindset.
Despite these issues, PM Modi chose to meet Yunus—likely to avoid weakening BIMSTEC’s image. The group is seen as a possible alternative to the inactive SAARC and India’s leadership within BIMSTEC is vital. A refusal to engage could have suggested disunity within the bloc.
The Symbolism in Silence
Interestingly, while Yunus posted pictures from the meeting, PM Modi’s social media accounts remained silent. No official images or statements were released regarding the one-on-one meeting. Only group photos with other BIMSTEC leaders were shared, which might reflect India’s cautious diplomatic approach.
However, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, did respond firmly to Yunus’s claims that India’s northeast is “landlocked” and dependent on Bangladesh for connectivity. Jaishankar highlighted India’s 6,500 km long coastline, its borders with five BIMSTEC members, and multiple connectivity projects underway, including highways to Thailand and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit project.
Strategic Vision Over Personal Egos
India chose not to let emotions override strategy. While Yunus may lack the stature for a direct rebuttal from PM Modi, India still made sure to respond—factually and firmly. The meeting lasted around 40–45 minutes, indicating that multiple issues were discussed behind closed doors, possibly including the safety of minorities in Bangladesh.
It’s clear India didn’t want BIMSTEC to end up like SAARC—ineffective due to internal rifts. This meeting signals that despite political tensions, India values regional cooperation and sees BIMSTEC as an essential forum for subcontinental and ASEAN connectivity.
Public Engagement – What’s Your Opinion?
Do you think PM Modi should have met Mohammad Yunus given the recent controversies?
Comment “Yes” or “No” and let us know your thoughts.
Quiz Time!
Question:
Which country recently conducted the military exercise “Strait Thunder 2025-A” near Taiwan?
Options:
A) Japan
B) South Korea
C) China
D) India
Write your answer in the comment section. Correct answers will be highlighted!