The first overseas trip of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who assumed office in February 2026, is likely to be to China, as indicated by various sources. This potential visit comes during a period of renewed efforts to strengthen India-Bangladesh relations following a tumultuous political phase marked by the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Observers have been closely monitoring which nation Rahman would choose for his inaugural foreign visit, given its significance in conveying geopolitical intentions.

In 2024, Hasina selected New Delhi for her initial foreign engagement after re-election, a move viewed as strategically significant. Newly appointed leaders typically use first overseas visits to communicate their international priorities and to foster or reinforce diplomatic ties. While Hasina’s first visit was to India, she had previously visited China in 1996. Rahman’s mother, Khaleda Zia, made her first international journey as Prime Minister to the United States in 1992, followed by a visit to India for the SAARC summit.

The historical context underscores the strategic nature of these visits, with Bangladesh’s first Prime Minister, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, having visited India shortly after the country’s independence in 1972, reinforcing the importance of diplomatic relations in the region.

Reported Invitation from China for State Visit

Recent reports indicate that the Chinese government has extended an invitation to Tarique Rahman for a state visit to Beijing, tentatively scheduled for late June. This information was published by Dhaka-based media outlet Prothom Alo, although official confirmation from the Bangladeshi government is still awaited. Discussions by Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and the Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Humayun Kabir, have hinted at the likelihood of China being Rahman’s first destination.

Although the dates for the proposed visit remain unconfirmed, it has been suggested that Rahman may engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang upon arrival. The Bangladeshi government has not issued a formal statement regarding the visit, though indications from senior officials suggest that Beijing is the preferred destination. The meeting is seen as essential for consolidating cooperation between Dhaka and Beijing that has intensified in recent months.

On May 11, Humayun Kabir indicated that the Prime Minister would indeed visit China, citing its role as a critical development partner for Bangladesh. The adviser noted that Rahman’s trip would occur at a convenient time, signalling that preparations are underway.

Recent Developments in India-Bangladesh Relations

In the context of bilateral ties, Khalilur Rahman visited India in April 2026, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations soon after the BNP government took office. During the visit, discussions with Indian counterparts focused on areas such as trade, energy cooperation, and border management, reflecting a commitment to strengthening ties after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also extended an invitation for Rahman to visit India shortly after his inauguration, expressing intent to further mutual interests and cooperative frameworks. Bangladesh’s recent diplomatic activities with China, particularly under the current BNP administration, have raised concerns in New Delhi regarding the balance of diplomatic relations in the region.

In contrast to increasing ties with China, Rahman’s engagement with India is characterised by efforts to manage existing issues, including the proposed Teesta water-sharing arrangement, which has been a point of contention between the two countries. While China’s growing influence in Bangladesh presents strategic challenges for India, the latter continues to view Bangladesh as a vital partner in regional security and connectivity.

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