PM Hasina: India a Great Friend of Bangladesh, Post Election Win

The 76-year-old leader, in power since 2009, clinched a fifth consecutive term in the one-sided election on Sunday for the strategically situated South Asian nation, marked by a low voter turnout. PM Sheikh Hasina stated on Monday that Bangladesh considers India a ‘strong ally,’ emphasizing the resolution of numerous bilateral issues between the two neighboring countries. This comes a day after her landslide victory in the general elections, securing an unprecedented fourth consecutive term.

The 76-year-old leader, who has been ruling the strategically located South Asian nation since 2009, secured a fifth overall term in the one-sided election on Sunday, which witnessed a low turnout.

“Bangladesh acknowledges India as a valuable friend, offering support during critical moments in 1971 and 1975. During my six-year exile after the tragic events that claimed the lives of my family members, India provided refuge for me, my sister, and other family members,” she expressed.

In August 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and their three sons were assassinated in their home by military officers. His daughters Hasina and Rehana survived the purge as they were abroad.

“We see India as our close neighbor, and despite challenges, we’ve resolved issues bilaterally. I highly value our excellent relationship,” she responded to a question.

“I have a good relationship with every country because that is our motto,” she added.

She said that the main focus of her government in the next five years will be on economic progress.

She said she tries to work for her people. “With motherly affection, I look after my people who gave me this opportunity. Time and again people have voted for me, and that is why I am here,” she added.

When compared to global leaders like former Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi and Sri Lanka’s former prime minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Hasina said, “They are very great ladies. I am not. I am very simple, just a common person.”

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