Bangladesh’s Diplomatic Gesture with Mangoes

Professor Muhammad Yunus, leading Bangladesh’s interim government, has embarked on a unique diplomatic initiative known as ‘mango diplomacy’ to enhance relations with India. This gesture comes shortly after India’s Foreign Ministry expressed readiness to discuss various issues with Dhaka in a supportive environment. As part of this goodwill effort, Bangladesh has dispatched a consignment of 1,000 kilograms of the renowned ‘Haribhanga’ mango variety to New Delhi.

Mangoes as a Symbol of Friendship

The shipment is expected to arrive in New Delhi on Monday, according to an official from the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, as reported by the Bangladeshi daily, Daily Sun. This act of sending mangoes symbolizes a gesture of friendship and aims to mend ties between the neighboring countries.

Recent Diplomatic Interactions

The diplomatic relationship between India and Bangladesh has seen recent developments. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Professor Yunus last met in April during the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. This meeting marked their first interaction since the fall of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. During their discussions, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh. He emphasized India’s people-centric approach and highlighted the longstanding cooperation that has benefited citizens of both nations.

Extending Mango Diplomacy Beyond India

In addition to sending mangoes to India, the Yunus government is also reaching out to regional leaders by sending mangoes to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. The Haribhanga mangoes are considered a premium variety from Bangladesh and are used as a tool for fostering goodwill.

Historical Context and Regional Dynamics

The tradition of sending mangoes as a diplomatic gesture has historical roots. However, relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have been strained since Sheikh Hasina’s ousting last year following student-led protests. The previous Hasina government maintained close ties with India. In contrast, the new caretaker government under Yunus has shown interest in strengthening relations with China and Pakistan, contributing to regional instability. China’s influence in South Asia through arms deals and loans is seen as an attempt to align regional interests with Beijing.

Implications of ‘Mango Diplomacy’

Amidst these geopolitical tensions, Bangladesh’s ‘mango diplomacy’ is perceived as an effort to improve relations with India. By using this form of outreach, Dhaka aims to sweeten its ties with New Delhi and potentially stabilize regional dynamics.