Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Dhaka for his historic two-day visit to Bangladesh at the invitation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This visit is in connection with the commemoration of three epochal events – Mujib Borsho, the birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman; 50 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh and 50 years of Bangladesh’s War of Liberation. PM Modi had last visited Bangladesh in 2015 and this is his first visit to a foreign country since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic which sums up the priority India attaches to Bangladesh and its 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
Before leaving for Dhaka, Modi said that India remains committed to further deepen and diversify the partnership with its neighbour and will continue to support Bangladesh's remarkable development journey, under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's "dynamic" leadership.
"I look forward to my participation at the National Day celebrations tomorrow, which will also commemorate the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Bangabandhu was one of the tallest leaders of the last Century, whose life and ideals continue to inspire millions. I look forward to visiting Bangabandhu’s Samadhi in Tungipara to pay my respects to his memory," Modi said in his departure statement ahead of his visit.
The PM said that he is also looking forward to offering prayers to Goddess Kali at the ancient Jashoreshwari Kali Temple, one of the 51 Shaktipeeths in the Puranic tradition.
On its first foreign journey with the PM, the Air India One, departed Delhi around 8 AM and landed at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at half past 10.
In a special gesture, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina and ministers from her cabinet welcomed the Indian PM at the airport.
"Landed in Dhaka. I thank PM Sheikh Hasina for the special welcome at the airport. This visit will contribute to even stronger bilateral relations between our nations," tweeted Modi.
A salute of 19 guns and Guard of honour were accorded to the guest of honour at the National Day programme of Bangladesh.
Soon after his arrival, Modi visited the National Martyrs Memorial (Jatiyo Sriti Soudho), the National monument of Bangladesh, to pay tributes to the valour and the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The monument is located in Savar, about 35 km north-west of Dhaka and was designed by Syed Mainul Hossain.
PM Modi planted a sapling of Arjun tree at the memorial premises to commemorate sacrifices of the patriotic martyrs of Bangladesh. Interestingly, in the same complex, former Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee had planted a sapling during his Bangladesh visit in 1999.
“Their valour will continue to inspire future generations to fight injustice and defend the cause of righteousness.” Modi inscribed in the visitor's book at the memorial. In the "sacred memory of the millions who were slain but not silenced", the Indian PM remembered the courage of those who took part in the Liberation War of Bangladesh which still continues to motivates many. "I pray that the eternal flame at Savar remains a lasting reminder of the noble victory of truth and courage over deceit and oppression,” he concluded.
Engaging the Bangladeshi political leadership across the spectrum, PM Modi then met the opposition leaders of Bangladesh in had discussions on a wide gamut of issues on the bilateral relations between the two countries.
He also met political leaders from 14 Party Alliance along with the convener. India's External Affairs Ministry said that discussions centred on diverse issues and strengthening ties between the two nations.
Modi then met various community leaders, including representatives of minorities in Bangladesh, and Bangladeshi Mukhtijoddhas.
He also met many 'friends of India' and Bangladesh youth icons, including former skipper of the Bangladesh cricket team, Shakib al Hasan.
"Really honoured to meet PM Modi. I think his visit will be fruitful for both countries. Leadership he had shown for India is tremendous. I hope he'll continue to help grow India in future and our relations with India will get better day by day," Shakib said in a video message post his meeting with Modi.
