Jaishankar on Bangladesh ties: ‘Can’t expect neighbours to only do what is in my interest’

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stresses mutuality in ties with neighbours as India and Bangladesh remain at odds over Sheikh Hasina’s extradition

PGurus Newsdesk

August 23, 2026

Jaishankar has called for mutual interests and common ground as India navigates strained ties with Bangladesh amid the Sheikh Hasina extradition dispute

Jaishankar stresses mutual interests as Hasina extradition strains India-Bangladesh ties

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has stressed that India-Bangladesh relations must be guided by mutual interests and common ground, amid an ongoing diplomatic strain over Dhaka’s demand for the extradition of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Speaking at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum in New Delhi, Jaishankar said India could not expect its neighbours to act only in New Delhi’s interest. He emphasised that a stable relationship requires both sides to recognise and respect each other’s concerns.

Jaishankar stresses mutual interest

Without commenting directly on the ongoing discussions over Hasina’s extradition, Jaishankar said bilateral relationships work when both countries find a “landing point” based on mutuality.

His remarks come as India-Bangladesh ties remain under pressure following Hasina’s ouster in August 2024 and her subsequent stay in India. Dhaka has repeatedly sought her extradition, while New Delhi has said the request is being examined under its legal procedures.

The issue has also cast uncertainty over Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s proposed visit to India. Dhaka has indicated that a more favourable diplomatic environment is needed for the visit, with the extradition issue emerging as a key point of contention.

‘Common ground’ key to ties

Jaishankar underlined that India must recognise the interests of its neighbours while also expecting them to respect India’s concerns.

The comments signal a pragmatic approach from New Delhi at a time when India and Bangladesh are attempting to manage disagreements without allowing individual disputes to derail the broader relationship.

The minister also spoke about India’s wider foreign-policy approach, arguing for “de-risking” and diversification as countries navigate geopolitical uncertainty, disrupted supply chains and growing strategic competition.

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