Kathmandu— On August 10th, India reaffirmed its “Neighbourhood First” policy through a series of high-level diplomatic meetings in Dhaka and Kathmandu, as Indian envoys engaged with the Prime Ministers of Bangladesh and Nepal. The discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation, advancing bilateral development initiatives, and addressing outstanding concerns between the nations. These meetings underscore New Delhi’s commitment to prioritizing engagement with its South Asian neighbours through direct communication and collaborative partnerships.

Bangladesh Seeks Extradition, Addresses Diplomatic Friction

India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, met with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office in Dhaka. The meeting aimed to foster constructive dialogue following recent diplomatic friction stemming from a press interaction by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi on August 5th, where she stated her intention to return to Bangladesh in December despite potential legal repercussions. During the talks, the Bangladeshi side formally requested India expedite the extradition process for Sheikh Hasina and reiterated requests regarding individuals sought in connection with domestic legal cases related to the July uprising of 2025.

Trivedi emphasized the importance of direct communication between leaders as a means of resolving bilateral issues, stating that dialogue is “the most effective pathway” to finding solutions. He also expressed optimism about the engagement and highlighted the positive relationship between the two countries’ Prime Ministers.

India Clarifies Position on Former PM's Address

The recent address by former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sparked protest from Dhaka, prompting India to clarify its position. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal explained that the event was organised by a “private media entity” and that New Delhi does not endorse any views expressed there. This clarification aimed to distance the Indian government from the content of Hasina’s address and mitigate potential damage to bilateral relations.

Trivedi, speaking after inaugurating a children's corner at the Indian Visa Application Centre in Dhaka, also underscored his confidence in resolving outstanding concerns through dialogue.

Nepal Prime Minister Breaks Protocol for Diplomatic Meeting

Simultaneously in Kathmandu, India’s Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, held a significant meeting with Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah. The interaction was particularly noteworthy as PM Shah had previously maintained a policy of avoiding one-on-one meetings with foreign diplomats, making this encounter a departure from his established protocol.

The discussions centred on expanding cooperation in development projects, trade, energy, and infrastructure to strengthen the historical and cultural ties between India and Nepal. Srivastava conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming a mutual commitment to a robust partnership. Both leaders emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral relations and collaborating on areas of mutual interest.

“Neighbourhood First” Policy Underpins Regional Engagement

These coordinated diplomatic interactions in Dhaka and Kathmandu highlight India’s active pursuit of its “Neighbourhood First” policy, a cornerstone of its foreign policy since 2014. The initiative prioritizes strong ties with South Asian neighbours through diplomacy, economic cooperation, and security engagement.

The framework aims to foster regional stability, deepen economic integration, and improve infrastructure connectivity through collaborative projects like transit corridors and shared energy networks, while also navigating domestic political dynamics and broader strategic competition in the region.

These meetings represent a continued effort by India to strengthen its relationships with key neighbours and promote regional cooperation under the “Neighbourhood First” policy. Further developments are expected as both countries prepare for upcoming events like the BRICS Summit.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.