Bangladesh PM heads to Malaysia and China, skipping India
Bangladesh PMTariq Rahman21st June 2026 – (Dhaka) Bangladesh’s prime minister, Tarique Rahman, begins his first overseas tour since taking office in February with a stop in Malaysia today, Sunday 21st June,. . .
Bangladesh PMTariq Rahman21st June 2026 – (Dhaka) Bangladesh’s prime minister, Tarique Rahman, begins his first overseas tour since taking office in February with a stop in Malaysia today, Sunday 21st June, before flying to China on Monday night for a five‑day visit. Dhaka says talks in Kuala Lumpur, running Sunday to Monday, will centre on expanding opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, while the China leg is expected to focus on financing and cooperation across infrastructure and other sectors. Beijing has yet to confirm the trip publicly, though Chinese officials signalled in May that they were keen to deepen ties, describing China as a reliable partner in Bangladesh’s development. Dhaka, for its part, has welcomed more Chinese investment and pledged a predictable business environment. Rahman’s itinerary has drawn close scrutiny in India, where his decision to prioritise Malaysia and China is being read as an early marker of foreign‑policy intent. Indian outlets note that incoming Bangladeshi leaders have often chosen New Delhi for a first visit. Rahman has previously accepted an invitation from India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, and indicated a broader effort to reset relations after recent strains. Analysts say India–Bangladesh ties remain in a period of recalibration following political upheaval in Dhaka, even as China courts South Asian partners. Bangladeshi and Chinese officials maintain that their cooperation is not aimed at any third party.