The signals emerging from Dhaka indicate that the interim regime is extremely keen for a Modi-Yunus meeting in Bangkok on the sidelines of the Bimstec summit which it claims can put ties back on track. Yunus also used his China trip to send a message to India by announcing a slew of deals. He even went to the extent of stating that Bangladesh alone can give India’s northeastern states access to the sea.
However, the Modi government remains circumspect and has been worried over the condition of minorities, rise of Islamists and lack of a roadmap for free and fair elections in Bangladesh. Sources pointed out that no call has yet been taken on any standalone meeting between Modi and Yunus in Bangkok. Bangladesh watchers are of the opinion that Yunus wants to seek legitimacy through a meeting with the PM.
During his China trip, Yunus, besides the Teesta water management pact, encouraged Chinese businesses to explore opportunities in textiles, pharmaceuticals and renewable energy sectors. China pledged $400 million for the modernisation of Mongla Port, a critical gateway for Bangladesh’s trade.
