April 8, 2025, New Delhi
After months of diplomatic pause, there’s finally movement at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. Riaz Hamidullah, a seasoned and widely respected diplomat, has arrived in India to take charge as Bangladesh’s new High Commissioner.
His presence comes not just as a formality, but as a much-needed signal: that both countries are ready to turn the page and talk again.
A Fresh Face, A Familiar Friend
Hamidullah is not new to international diplomacy. A 1995 batch officer of Bangladesh’s Foreign Service, he’s served in multiple important roles over the years—including as Ambassador to the Netherlands. Those who’ve worked with him often describe him as calm, thoughtful, and deeply committed to building bridges.
He’s also known for being approachable—someone who listens before he speaks, and who prefers meaningful dialogue over dramatic statements. That attitude might be exactly what’s needed now.
Arriving at a Sensitive Time
His arrival couldn’t have come at a more delicate moment. Over the past few months, the relationship between India and Bangladesh has felt slightly strained. In February, India summoned Bangladesh’s Acting High Commissioner after some public comments from Dhaka created a stir in New Delhi. The incident, though brief, hinted at rising discomfort between the two sides.
On top of that, the post of High Commissioner had been vacant since October 2024, when Mustafizur Rahman was called back to Dhaka. For two nations so closely linked—by geography, culture, history, and emotion—that silence began to feel heavy.
Now, with Riaz Hamidullah in Delhi, there’s hope for clearer communication and renewed engagement.
Diplomatic Circles React
Among diplomats and policy watchers in Delhi, Hamidullah’s appointment has been met with optimism. Many see him as someone capable of smoothing over rough patches and focusing on practical cooperation.
“He’s someone who understands nuance,” said a retired Indian diplomat who worked with Hamidullah during earlier postings. “You need that kind of sensitivity when you’re dealing with neighbors—especially neighbors as intertwined as India and Bangladesh.”
What’s Next?
There’s a lot on the table. Trade. Water sharing. Border security. Cultural ties. People-to-people exchange. But before anything else, what matters most is trust—and trust is built slowly, through conversation and consistency.
With Hamidullah now stepping in, both countries have a fresh opportunity to reconnect not just at the government level, but also on a human level. After all, diplomacy isn’t just about policies and paperwork—it’s also about people.
And sometimes, one thoughtful envoy arriving in a new city can make all the difference.
