Bangladesh Resumes Visa Services in India as Ties Begin to Normalize

The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi has resumed its visa operations after a hiatus of nearly two months. Starting Friday (February 20), the mission began issuing visas to Indian citizens, marking a significant step in restoring diplomatic normalcy.

According to a report by India Today, bilateral relations had soured following the death of Inqilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Hadi, leading to a suspension of visa services by both nations since last December.

The breakthrough comes within just three days of the new government, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), taking office. Following the BNP's landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, a thaw in relations became evident. On February 13, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Tarique Rahman and assured him of India's continued cooperation during a telephonic conversation.

Following this, India also announced on Thursday that it would "soon" resume all categories of visa services for Bangladeshi nationals. Diplomatic experts view these reciprocal moves as a strong indication of the revitalization of bilateral ties between the two neighbors.