Bangladesh is on the verge of a major political transition as Tarique Rahman prepares for his swearing-in ceremony as the new head of government on February 17. The transition follows a decisive victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), marking the end of the interim administration led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. Rahman has already signaled a "Bangladesh First" approach to foreign policy, emphasizing national sovereignty while seeking to recalibrate ties with neighboring India. 

High-level international dignitaries, including India's Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, are confirmed to attend the ceremony in Dhaka. However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reportedly skipping the event, a move that has sparked debate regarding the future of Indo-Bangla relations. Rahman has urged New Delhi to recognize the "changed political reality" and move toward a partnership based on mutual respect rather than past political alignments. 

The new government faces immediate challenges, including stabilizing the domestic economy and addressing concerns over policy continuity following the interim period. Proponents of the BNP hope that the new leadership will restore democratic institutions and stimulate growth through new trade agreements. Meanwhile, the outgoing interim government under Muhammad Yunus has been praised for its role in overseeing the elections but leaves behind a nation still grappling with significant internal political divisions.