Biden Rings Modi to Discuss Bangladesh’s Security and Democratic Future

US President Joseph Biden, in a recent call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has expressed concerns over the security of people and future of democratic institutions in Bangladesh. The White House national security communications advisor John Kirby mentioned at a press daily briefing in Washington, DC, on September 4 that the phone call was made by Biden. 

“The president made clear his continued concerns about the safety and security of the people in Bangladesh and the future of their democratic institutions,” said Kirby. He added that both the leaders “shared concerns” regarding the recent political developments in the country.  

The internal political turmoil in Bangladesh has become a matter of consideration for the leaders of the oldest democracy (Joe Biden) and the largest democracy (Narendra Modi). The recent phone call is the second in line, where Biden-Modi discussed the change of political landscape in Bangladesh.  

The political tensions in Bangladesh began with students' protests over job quota issues. The protests eventually led to an abrupt ending of nearly fifteen years of leadership under PM Sheikh Hasina. She resigned and left her country. Following this, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Muhammad Yunus took charge as the head of the interim government. 

The first call was made by Biden to Modi on August 26, and the two had an in-depth conversation on regional and global issues. Apart from Bangladesh, the situation in Ukraine too was part of their discussion. Additionally, Modi highlighted the pursuit of democratic values common to both India and the US.  

“The two leaders expressed their shared concerns over the situation in Bangladesh. They emphasised restoration of law and order and ensuring safety and security of the minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh,” said the PMO in the press release on August 26.