China, India congratulate new Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman

Foreign ministers (FM) of China and India have congratulated Bangladesh’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman, marking the first formal international messages since he assumed office in the new cabinet led by Tarique Rahman.

In separate messages on Wednesday (February 18), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed their greetings and expressed interest in working closely with the new minister.

Wang Yi highlighted the importance of implementing key understandings reached between the top leadership of the two countries and voiced hope that the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic partnership would reach new heights.

Jaishankar, for his part, underscored the commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation for mutual progress and public welfare. He expressed his eagerness to work with Dr. Rahman to further strengthen existing ties, while emphasising regional stability and shared prosperity.

Analysts view the swift messages from Beijing and New Delhi as a positive signal for future cooperation between Bangladesh and its two key neighbors.

Dr. Khalilur Rahman previously served as National Security Adviser and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser in the interim government. Observers say his diplomatic and strategic experience has contributed to the confidence expressed by regional partners.

On the same day, the Chinese and Indian embassies in Dhaka also formally conveyed their congratulatory messages to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.