United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday (July 07, 2024) dismissed the movement against the quota system in the government jobs as irrational saying it's sub-judice. “I don’t think there is any rationality for what is being done today in the name of movement by wasting the study time,” she said.  The premier said this when the central leaders of Jubo Mohila League paid a courtesy call on her at Ganabhaban on the occasion of its 22nd founding anniversary. Jubo Mohila League, an associate body of the ruling Bangladesh Awami League (AL), was founded on July 6, 2002. Referring to the recent judgment of the High Court against the abolishment of the quota system in the government jobs, Hasina said the it's not right to wage a movement against the judgment of the High Court and it is a sub-judice matter. “If the High Court delivers judgment on an issue, it (any change) will have to come again from the High Court,” she said. PM Hasina calls for enhanced trade and investment between Bangladesh and Spain The PM said the government earlier abolished the quota system (in 2018) but different districts, remote areas and even women have been deprived of getting jobs in the last few years. A large number of girls who used to get jobs due to the quota system in the past, did not get any opportunity in the past few years, she added. Criticising the girls who are participating in the anti-quota movement, she said “Here I’ve a question. It needs to find the calculation that how many of them (girls) who earlier joined the movement (in 2018) sat for the PSC examination and how many of them passed,” she said. The girls should prove first that a greater  number of them qualified the examinations, said the prime minister. Talking about the universal pension scheme, she said the government introduced it for all in accordance with Awami League’s  electoral manifesto. The PM asked all politicians including the members of the Jubo Mohila League to join the universal pension scheme for their safe old age life.  “If they join, they would not need to depend on others and they wouldn’t be a burden for their sons and daughters in their old age” she said. AL President Sheikh Hasina said Jubo Mohila League has been struggling for establishing the rights of the country’s people from the very beginning of its foundation.  “The people voted for the Awami League consecutively after 2008. So, we came to power time and again. We’ve been able to elevate Bangladesh to a higher position in every sector, including women empowerment,” she said. Govt modernised curriculum to flourish talents of students: PM Hasina She said Khaleda Zia was ousted from power on two occasions by the people for vote-rigging.  “Khaleda Zia said with pride that she came to power through a voterless election held on February 15, 1996. But the people of Bangladesh ousted the thieves of votes.   Within only one and half months — March 30, 1996, she had been forced to step down,” she added. The PM said BNP again were ousted (in 2006) from power as the people didn’t accept their conspiracy to rig vote and the election (January 22, 2007 election) was spoiled.    The AL president asked the members of Jubo Mohila League to raise the misrules of the BNP regimes before the people as well as to play a more active role so that their misrules can not return again in the country. Read more: Anti-quota movement: Students block Dhaka-Barishal Highway causing 5km tailback

China has announced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's official visit to China from July 8-10. "At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh will pay an official visit to China from July 8 to 10," said the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Thursday. In Dhaka, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said the visit will "outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation" in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs. During this visit, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will meet with Chinese leaders, sign a number of cooperation documents, and jointly announce major cooperation achievements, he said while talking to diplomatic correspondents at DCAB Talk. PM’s China visit very important to expedite development: Hasan Mahmud Through this visit, the two sides will achieve new breakthroughs in pragmatic cooperation, bringing more benefits to the people of both countries, said the Ambassador who temed the forthcoming visit a milestone in bilateral relations. Mao Ning said this will be Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's first visit to China since her new term began and five years after her last visit to China. During the visit, President Xi Jinping will meet with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Premier Li Qiang will hold a welcoming ceremony and have talks with her. The two prime ministers will attend the signing ceremony of cooperation documents. "Leaders of the two countries will have an in-depth exchange of views on how to deepen traditional friendship and expand mutually beneficial cooperation and on regional and international issues of mutual interest," said the Spokesperson. Prime Minister Hasina will also attend the Summit on Trade, Business and Investment Opportunities between China and Bangladesh, she said. Beijing said Bangladesh and China are good neighbours, good friends and good partners. PM Hasina's forthcoming China visit will be a game-changer in Dhaka-Beijing ties: Ambassador Yao Wen "We have similar visions for development and well-aligned development strategies. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 49 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with respect and equality, engaged in mutually beneficial cooperation, supported each other on issues concerning our respective core interests, and jointly advanced modernization," said the Spokesperson. She said they have set a good example of friendship and cooperation between developing countries. In recent years, with the strategic guidance and commitment of leaders of our two countries, the two sides have deepened Bangladesh-China strategic cooperative partnership, and had fruitful and practical cooperation in various fields. "China stands ready to work with Bangladesh through this visit to carry forward the spirit of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, deepen political mutual trust, further synergize development strategies, advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, speed up implementing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and elevate our bilateral relations to a new level," said the Spokesperson. Read more: Bangladesh to seek $7 billion fund from China to boost trade in business summit during PM's visit

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today (July 04, 2024) said that it is solely Bangladesh’s sovereign right to decide on the Teesta project, and that this decision must be respected. “Whatever project regarding the Teesta river is truly on Bangladesh’s side to make a decision. And the decision has to be respected,” he told diplomatic correspondents at a DCAB Talk, responding to a question on the Teesta river that Bangladesh shares with India. Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event at Jatiya Press Club ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China next week. DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib and General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu also spoke at the event. The Chinese ambassador stated that the visit will outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs. Ambassador Yao mentioned that China had made its proposal on Teesta following Bangladesh's request and is open to accepting any decision. “We are open. It’s purely on Bangladesh to decide what to do at the next stage.” PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to boost China-Bangladesh cooperation on bilateral, regional and global issues, says Ambassador India also expressed interest and announced that a technical team would soon visit Bangladesh to discuss the Teesta river conservation and management issues. On June 25, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that the government would accept the financing proposal for the Teesta Masterplan Project based on what is most beneficial for the country. “We have undertaken the Teesta project. China and India have given separate proposals (for financing it). We must accept the proposal which will be more beneficial for the people of our country,” she said at a press conference at her official residence, Ganabhaban, regarding the outcome of her recent visit to India. Addressing a separate question, Ambassador Yao emphasized the importance of good relations between Bangladesh and its neighbouring countries. “You know, it is a success of your national foreign policy. So, we want to see good relations. And also, we want our relations to be playing a positive role and be viewed positively by the other countries. So that is a win-win cooperation and will benefit all parties,” he said. He dismissed any notion of tension between India and China regarding this project, stating, “I don't see any tension. We want to see the project start very soon. Since I know almost 30 million people need this project, we just want to see if it can be studied and completed very soon.” Regarding the development of southern Bangladesh, the ambassador mentioned that it is a proposal from the Bangladesh side and that China could play a significant role in aiding this development. “It is a good opportunity for China to get involved in the internal development of Bangladesh and we will have a very active and positive approach to that proposal,” he said. Ambassador Yao also praised Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts in sheltering over 1 million Rohingya refugees. “China is actively pursuing all parties involved in the Myanmar conflict to achieve a ceasefire and engage in dialogue, thus paving the way for the repatriation at an early date,” he said. The envoy added that China is ready to support Bangladesh in the multilateral arena, jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promoting regional and international peace and stability. PM’s upcoming China visit a reflection of maintaining balanced diplomacy: Foreign Minister He highlighted cooperation opportunities in areas such as education, media, infrastructure, trade promotion, investment, agricultural imports from Bangladesh, and the digital economy during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming visit. Ambassador Yao noted that the Bangladesh-China relationship is at its best and is embracing tremendous development opportunities. “Next year, our two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. How to further elevate bilateral relations, expand the scope of exchanges, tap the potential for cooperation, and make the relationship between our two countries and peoples better, deeper, and closer is a task that requires joint efforts from both sides,” he said. He emphasized that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China will be a milestone in bilateral relations, building on past achievements and forging ahead. “This visit will surely inject vibrant impetus into bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, promoting new achievements in the strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Bangladesh, and elevating the relationship to a new height,” he said. The envoy highlighted that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to China is highly anticipated by all. “This visit is expected to take the helm for the growth of the China-Bangladesh relationship for the next five years or even longer.” During the visit, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will meet with Chinese leaders, sign a number of cooperation documents, and jointly announce major cooperation achievements. Through this visit, both sides will firmly support each other and further deepen communication at all levels, he mentioned. Read more: Experts highlight Bangladesh’s need for China in its dev journey, strategic gains anticipated from PM Hasina’s upcoming visit

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Thursday (July 04, 2024) said China stands ready to take Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit as an opportunity to further deepen mutual trust between the two countries, strengthen the synergy of development strategies, consolidate traditional friendship, and work together to realize the Chinese Dream of National Rejuvenation and Bangladesh’s Vision 2041. "Our relationship boasts strong vitality, dynamism, and development potential. It enjoys broad support from our two peoples and will continue to maintain robust and sound development momentum," he said. The Ambassador made the remarks at the DCAB Talk held at Jatiya Press Club. DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib and General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu also spoke at the event.  The envoy said China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to achieve more practical results in infrastructure, digital economy, clean energy, agriculture, education, healthcare, culture and people-to-people exchanges, thereby assisting Bangladesh in its modernization process. Through PM Hasina’s upcoming visit, he said, the two sides will further enhance coordination and cooperation on regional and international issues, jointly upholding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice. The envoy said China supports Bangladesh’s bid to become a partner country of the BRICS and hopes Bangladesh will be a BRICS member at an early date.  PM’s upcoming China visit a reflection of maintaining balanced diplomacy: Foreign Minister He said China highly appreciates Bangladesh's humanitarian spirit in sheltering more than one million Rohingya refugees. China is actively pursuing all parties involved in the Myanmar conflict to achieve a ceasefire and engage in dialogue, thus paving the way for repatriation of the refugees at an early date.  "China stands ready to support Bangladesh in multilateral arena, jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promoting regional and international peace and stability," Yao said. He said Bangladesh and China share similar values, national dreams, and development paths.  The envoy said China is ready to carry forward the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence with Bangladesh, consolidate political mutual trust, and make China-Bangladesh relations a model of mutual respect and win-win cooperation among developing countries. Through the PM’s upcoming visit, he said, the two sides will achieve new breakthroughs in pragmatic cooperation, bringing more benefits to the people of both countries.  "It has been proven that China is Bangladesh's most reliable partner and most trustworthy friend," said the Ambassador. On Bangladesh's journey toward modernization, he said the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is highly consistent with Vision 2041 and the dream of "Golden Bengal," as well as Bangladesh's national conditions.  "China is Bangladesh's largest trading partner and the second-largest source of foreign investment. China's economic and trade cooperation with Bangladesh comes with no political strings attached nor demands for special privileges. Significant results have been achieved over the past eight years since Bangladesh joined the BRI," he added. Read more: Experts highlight Bangladesh’s need for China in its dev journey, strategic gains anticipated from PM Hasina’s upcoming visit

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday (June 25, 2024) said she has a good friendly relation with every political party and all in India. “I’ve a good friendly relation with every party and all in India,” she said at a press conference arranged in Ganabhaban over the outcomes of her recent visit to India. The premier made the remarks, replying to a question from Nahar Khan of UNB over the former’s meeting with President of Indian National Congress Sonia Gandhi during the first of her two visits to New Delhi in quick succession. PM Hasina invites Dr Yunus to a debate with her on issues of his concern Sheikh Hasina said she particularly has a good relation with Sonia Gandhi and their children, and the family members of former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee. “We’ve a family tie with Pranab Babu and his children. There is also a family bond between the family of Indira Gandhi and our family, which is above politics and all things,” she said. The PM went to New Delhi on June 21 on a two-day state visit to India at the invitation of her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. This was the first bilateral visit by any head of government to India after the BJP-led alliance formed its government for the third consecutive term following the Lok Sabha elections. India visit brief, but very fruitful: PM Hasina tells media Awami League general secretary and also road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader, Deputy Leader of the House Matia Chowdhury, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud, PM’s Private Industry and Invest Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, AL presidium members Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim MP and Kazi Zafarullah were on the dais.  PM’s Press Secretary Md Nayeemul Islam Khan conducted the press conference.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday invited Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus to a debate with her on issues concerning him. “There is nothing to be jealous of. He may come and have a debate with me as is done in the USA,” she said. The premier said while replying to a question at the press conference arranged in Ganabhaban over the outcomes of her India visit. She said Yunus availed most financial and other benefits from her. “It is right; we promoted him very much,” she added. “Sheikh Hasina feels no jealousy with anyone. Sheikh Hasina is the daughter of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. None can come up at least to this position. I feel proud of it,” she said, adding that the prime ministership is a temporary thing. The PM said she always protects the interest of the country. “I never sell the country or the interests of the country (to anyone),” she said. Hasina said she has been working always for the protection of the country’s independence and sovereignty, and for the people of the country so that they can move, raising their heads high. Pointing at the countries which are vocal on the issue of Yunus, the PM questioned what action they would have taken if anyone evades taxes years after years and if anyone embezzles the money of the Labour welfare fund and doesn’t pay the dues of the workers. “He hasn't paid a single penny to the Labour welfare fund since 2006,” she said. She said the workers filed a case with the Labour court and he was convicted in that case. “What is my fault here?” asked Hasina. She said Grameen Bank was established during the regime of HM Ershad and Dr Yunus was made its Managing Director. “But he didn't (establish) this bank himself,” she added. She said he used to do a job as the managing director and drew the salary at the bank which is a statutory organisation. The salary and other things were provided from the government, she went on.  But a campaign was done in such a way as if he (Dr Yunus) had established this bank, said Hasina.  She noted that Yunus' microcredit scheme was not acceptable as  the borrowers  had to pay upto 40-45 percent interest for loans. She questioned why the poverty was not alleviated with his microcredit scheme in the country when it was so effective. “It is I who alleviated poverty in Bangladesh. I brought down the poverty rate to 18.7 percent from 41.6 in only 15 years,” said the premier. I’ve no desire for Nobel prize:  Sheikh Hasina said she has no conflict with anyone and never has a desire to get a Nobel Prize.  Citing her role for the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord in1997, Sheikh Hasina said it was a unique peace accord as some 1800 armed persons surrendered and submitted their arms. She said many noted personalitie at home and abroad wrote for giving her the Nobel Prize after the peace accord, but she never wented to tell them such, she said. “When the MD of a bank obtains a Nobel prize, why would I go to contest with him,” she asked. The PM went to New Delhi on June 21 on a two-day state visit to India at the invitation of her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. This was the first bilateral visit by any head of government to India after the BJP-led alliance formed its government for the third consecutive term following the Lok Sabha elections. During the visit, Dhaka and New Delhi signed 7 Memorandums of Understanding and renewed three others to further consolidate the ever-growing relationship between the two neighbouring countries. Awami League general secretary and also road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader, Deputy Leader of the House Matia Chowdhury, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud, PM’s Private Industry and Invest Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, AL presidium members Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim MP and Kazi Zafarullah were on the dais.  PM’s Press Secretary Md Nayeemul Islam Khan conducted the press conference.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her dissatisfaction with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for excluding her from the recent water-sharing discussions with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during their meeting in New Delhi. In a strongly worded letter to Modi, dated June 24, 2024, she wrote: “I am writing this letter in context of the recent visit of Hon'ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh. It seems that water sharing issues relating to the Ganges and Teesta rivers may have been discussed during the meeting. Such unilateral deliberations and discussions without consultation and the opinion of the state government is neither acceptable nor desirable.” Dhaka, Delhi discussed joint river management: Hasan Mahmud Mamata emphasized the importance of West Bengal's relationship with Bangladesh, stating, “We do share a very close relationship with Bangladesh - geographically, culturally and economically, I love and respect people of Bangladesh and always wish for their well-being. The state of West Bengal has cooperated with Bangladesh on several issues in the past.” She highlighted several successful collaborations, including the exchange of India-Bangladesh enclaves (Chitmahal), the Indo-Bangladesh Railway Line, and Bus Services. However, she underlined the critical importance of water resources, saying, “Water is very precious and is the lifeline of the people. We cannot compromise on such a sensitive issue which has severe and adverse implication on the people. People of West Bengal will be the worst sufferers due to the impact of such agreements.” Peaceful management of border a shared priority: Dhaka, Delhi The West Bengal Chief Minister raised concerns about the renewal of the Indo-Bangladesh Farakka Treaty, set to expire in 2026. She noted, “It is a Treaty which delineates the principles of sharing of water between Bangladesh and India and as you are aware it has huge implications for the people of West Bengal for maintaining their livelihood and that the water which is diverted at the Farakka Barrage helps in maintaining the navigability of the Kolkata port.” She pointed out the changes in river morphology in eastern India and Bangladesh, which have negatively impacted water availability in West Bengal. “There has been eastward migration of the Ganges (and Padma in Bangladesh) over the last 200 years disrupting their link with several rivers in West Bengal. For example, Jalangi and Mathabhanga rivers got disconnected from Padma and the fresh water inflow into the Sundarban has reduced. In fact, the genesis of construction of Farakka Barrage Project is the disconnection of Bhagirathi from the Ganges.” Hasina, Modi endorse shared vision for future enhancing connectivity, commerce, collaboration for shared prosperity Mamata expressed frustration over the lack of response to her previous communications on these issues, stating, “On these issues, I have written several times to draw your attention.” Regarding the Teesta river, she wrote, “Further, it seems that sharing of Teesta water between India and Bangladesh has also been discussed in the meeting. The health of Teesta river has suffered from construction of series of hydropower projects in Sikkim, deforestation in upper catchment and impact of climate change.” She criticized the Indian government’s proposal for bilateral cooperation to restore the Teesta in Bangladesh, noting the lack of concrete steps taken by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to restore the river onthe Indian side. “I am surprised by the fact that no concrete steps have been taken by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to restore the river in its original form and health on the Indian side. Due to reasons stated above water flow in the Teesta has gone down over the years and it is estimated that, if any water is shared with Bangladesh, lakhs of people in North Bengal (West Bengal) will get severely impacted due to inadequate availability of irrigation water.” In her concluding remarks, Mamata reiterated her strong reservations, “Finally, it is to convey my strong reservation that no discussion on sharing of Teesta water and the Farakka Treaty should be taken up with Bangladesh without the involvement of the state government. The interest of people in West Bengal is paramount which should not be compromised at any cost.” Flood-hit people in Sylhet face food, drinking water crisis though water receding

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina distributed 18,566 more houses  among the homeless and landless families across the country under Ashrayan-2 project on Tuesday (June 11, 2024), five days before the Eid-ul Azha. She opened the distribution of the houses alongwith ownership documents through a videoconference from her official residence Ganabhaban, connecting to Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat, Eidgaon upazila of Cox’s Bazar, and Char Fashion upazila of Bhola. Besides, the PM declared 70 more upazilas, including all upazilas of 26 districts, free from landlessness and homelessness people. With this declaration, the total number of landless and homeless-free districts has reached 58 and the number of landless and homeless-free Upazilas has gone up to 464 across the country. The houses were constructed under the government’s flagship housing programme, Ashrayan-2 Project, aiming to ensure housing for all. PM Hasina's Ashrayan project to set another milestone Tuesday On Tuesday, the prime minister distributed 1,282 houses in Lalmonirhat, 261 in Cox’s Bazar, and 1,234 in Bhola districts. Earlier, the prime minister distributed 63,999 houses in the first phase, 53,330 in the second phase, 59,133 in the third phase, and 39,365 in the fourth phase of the Ashrayan-2 Project across the country. Under the project, each landless and homeless family is provided with a semi-pucca house on two decimals of land, with ownership jointly granted to both husband and wife. Each house consists of two bedrooms, a kitchen, a toilet, and a veranda. The rehabilitation programme for homeless people was initially introduced by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972. Following that PM Hasina initiated the Ashrayan project in 1997 to provide ownership of houses and lands to homeless and landless people. Since its inception, the Ashrayan project has rehabilitated a total of 771,301 families, benefiting an estimated 3,856,505 individuals. Across all programmes, 4,340,000 people from 867,904 families have been rehabilitated, including 2,910,265 people from 582,053 families under the Ashrayan Project. Read more: Ashrayan project: PM Hasina to provide free houses, lands to 18,566 families

Photos of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina alongside her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi have been prominently displayed across Delhi as part of India's grand preparations for Modi's swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for Sunday (June 09, 2024) evening. “Welcome to India,” read the large banners featuring the two leaders. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in New Delhi on Saturday to attend the ceremony, marking her as the first "distinguished" guest. She was warmly received at the airport by a high-level Indian delegation and Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Md. Mustafizur Rahman. "This visit of one of our most valued partners will further strengthen Bangladesh-India close and deep-rooted bonds of friendship," stated the Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday. Modi’s oath-taking: PM Hasina warmly received by India as first “distinguished” guest During her stay in New Delhi, Prime Minister Hasina will have a private meeting with Modi following the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan at 7:15 pm on Sunday. She will also attend a state dinner hosted by the Indian President. The visit by leaders to attend Modi's swearing-in for his third consecutive term underscores India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. The ceremony, following the 2024 general elections, will see the oath-taking of Prime Minister Modi and his Council of Ministers. Modi oath-taking: Foreign leaders' presence confirms India's Neighbourhood First policy, says MEA Distinguished guests from neighboring countries and the Indian Ocean region have been invited, including Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. Following the swearing-in ceremony, the leaders will attend a banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Hasina is scheduled to depart New Delhi for Dhaka on Monday, expected to arrive at 8 pm. Cabinet expansion: 7 more junior ministers set to take oath Modi, 73, will be equalling the feat of the first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who won in the 1952, 1957 and 1962 general elections.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to leave for New Delhi on Saturday to attend her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony at his invitation. PM's speechwriter, M Nazrul Islam, today confirmed her joining in the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Sunday (June 9). She will return home on June 10, he added. Modi is likely to take oath as the prime minister of India for the historic third term in a row on June 9 after his BJP-led NDA alliance won 293 seats in the elections for 543-member Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament. PM Hasina and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremsinghe are among the foreign leaders who have been invited to witness Modi’s oath-taking ceremony. Earlier, Modi invited Hasina to attend the swearing-in ceremony of his government,  and she accepted the invitation. Modi has thanked PM Hasina for her warm wishes following his election victory. Prime Minister Hasina was among the first foreign leaders to congratulate Modi, reflecting the warmth and personal rapport between the two leaders. "India and Bangladesh share historic relations, which have seen unprecedented growth in the last decade," Modi said. In a message shared through X, Modi said he looks forward to working together to further strengthen the people-centric partnership between Bangladesh and India. Earlier, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina congratulated Narendra Modi on the resounding victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Lok Sabha election. "As the leader of the largest democracy in the world, you carry the hopes and aspirations of the people of India," she said. Modi received a congratulatory telephone call from Sheikh Hasina for the victory of NDA, according to the Press Information Bureau of India. The two leaders pledged to continue working together to further deepen the historic and close ties under the renewed mandate towards achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 and Smart Bangladesh 2041. They acknowledged the significant improvements achieved in the lives of the people of both countries in the last decade and looked forward to further enhancing the transformative relationship across all domains that include economic and development partnership, energy security, connectivity including digital linkages and people-to-people contacts among others. PM Narendra Modi called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday and tendered his resignation along with the Union council of ministers.