Dhaka, July 24: India has officially invited Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Tariq Rahman, to the 18th BRICS Summit scheduled for September 12-13 in New Delhi. According to local media reports, discussions at the summit are expected to focus on global cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Shama Obaid Islam, confirmed to reporters on Thursday afternoon that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received the invitation from India, which has been forwarded to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Despite not being a member or observer of the 11-member BRICS group, Bangladesh has been invited as a special guest, as reported by Bangladeshi media.
This significant gesture from India comes amid efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional cooperation between the two nations.
Currently, BRICS members include Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
India’s presidency of BRICS is themed “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability,” reflecting the people-centric approach emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2025 Rio Summit.
Last month, the Indian government elevated its High Commissioner in Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, to the status of Union Cabinet Minister, underscoring New Delhi’s commitment to its relationship with Dhaka.
A memorandum issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs stated, “The signatory is directed to grant Dinesh Trivedi, the High Commissioner of India in Bangladesh, a rank equivalent to that of a Central Cabinet Minister on a personal basis. No amendments have been made to the order of precedence. This status will only be valid for formal and state functions.”
Additionally, local media reported that India resumed issuing tourist visas to Bangladeshi citizens on June 25, nearly two years after the service was suspended following protests in July 2024.
This announcement was made by High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi during his visit to the Indian Visa Application Center at Jamuna Future Park in Dhaka.
According to The Daily Star, he expressed, “I am pleased to announce that regular travel visas are being resumed. Visa applications can be submitted starting June 28. Emergency medical visas will continue to be issued on humanitarian grounds as before.”
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