What Narendra Modi said in reply to Tarique Rahman’s birthday greetings

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has replied to the birthday greetings of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

In response to Tarique Rahman’s greeting message, Narendra Modi thanked him and said, “Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, thank you for your warm greetings. I deeply appreciate your kind words.”

On September 17, Tarique Rahman wished Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of his birthday. In that message posted on social media, the Bangladesh Prime Minister wished the Indian Prime Minister good health and dynamism.

Tarique Rahman said, “Warm birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Many good wishes for you on this special day of your birthday. May you always maintain good health and vibrant enthusiasm along with your dedicated service to the people of India.”

This reply of Narendra Modi after Tarique Rahman’s greetings has brought the matter of exchange of courtesy and mutual greetings between the heads of government of the two countries to the fore.

Notably, a few days ago discussions were going on between Bangladesh and India regarding Tarique Rahman’s participation in the BRICS summit. On July 14 a diplomatic note was sent to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Indian High Commission. In it, Tarique Rahman was invited as the current chairperson of BIMESTEC to participate in the BRICS outreach session in New Delhi.

On August 10 Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman informed that Bangladesh had received two invitations from India. One was for Tarique Rahman’s bilateral visit to India and the other was to participate in the BRICS outreach session as the chairperson of BIMESTEC. At that time no final decision had been taken on any invitation.

Later on September 10 State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir informed that Tarique Rahman would not participate in the BRICS summit. He said the invitation had been given not as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh but as the chairman of BIMESTEC. At the same time he informed that Tarique Rahman may go to India on a bilateral visit if a suitable environment is created.