Top leaders and senior representatives from several South Asian countries attended the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh’s newly elected government, held at the National Parliament Building in Dhaka. According to the state news agency BSS, the event took place on Tuesday, with the presence of dignitaries from Maldives, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muiz arrived in Dhaka in the morning and was received by Foreign Affairs Adviser M. Touhid Hossain. Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay joined the ceremony at Bangladesh’s invitation, with Bhutan’s embassy noting that his visit reflects continued support and long-term friendship. India’s Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla represented his country, while Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal Chowdhury attended as Pakistan’s delegate. Nepal’s Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma and Sri Lanka’s Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa also participated.

The participation of these regional leaders underscores South Asia’s interest in Bangladesh’s political transition and signals a commitment to deepen cooperation with the new government led by Tarique Rahman.