Qatari state minister extends congratulations to BNP leader on election victory, signalling strengthened bilateral ties.
Qatari Minister Calls Tarique Rahman to extend congratulations on the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s recent parliamentary election success. The phone conversation, held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, involved Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al-Khulaifi, Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, and Tarique Rahman, BNP Chairman. This exchange highlights growing diplomatic engagement between Doha and Dhaka following BNP’s landslide win.
This Tarique Rahman phone call underscores the importance of Bangladesh Qatar ties in the region. As South Asia navigates political shifts, such interactions foster cooperation in trade, energy, and migration, benefiting millions of Bangladeshi workers in Qatar.
Details of the Tarique Rahman Phone Call
Dr Al-Khulaifi initiated the call to convey Qatar’s support for the new government. In a statement, he said: “I spoke with Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, during which I extended my warmest congratulations on the party’s success in the parliamentary elections. I look forward to further strengthening the bonds of constructive cooperation between Qatar and Bangladesh in various fields, in a way that advances the mutual interests of our two friendly nations.”
The conversation lasted approximately 15 minutes and focused on mutual interests. Qatar hosts over 400,000 Bangladeshi expatriates, contributing QAR 20 billion annually in remittances to Bangladesh’s economy. This BNP Qatar congratulations aligns with Qatar’s strategy to deepen relations with emerging South Asian governments.
Tarique Rahman, who returned from 17-year exile in December 2025, leads BNP after securing 199 seats in the February 12, 2026, elections. Voter turnout reached 59%, with BNP garnering 49.97% of votes, per Election Commission data.
Strengthening Bangladesh Qatar Ties
Bangladesh Qatar ties have evolved since diplomatic relations began in 1974. Qatar invests heavily in Bangladesh’s infrastructure, including the Matarbari deep-sea port project valued at USD 3.5 billion. In 2025, Qatar supplied 15% of Bangladesh’s liquefied natural gas imports, totalling 4 million tonnes.
The Tarique Rahman phone call follows similar engagements. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani also congratulated Rahman on Saturday, February 14, 2026, via a public message. This reflects Doha’s interest in stable governance in Dhaka, especially amid regional challenges like energy security and labour migration.
Experts note that such calls enhance economic partnerships. Bangladesh exports USD 500 million in goods to Qatar yearly, mainly textiles and ready-made garments. In return, Qatar provides employment opportunities, with 50,000 new visas issued to Bangladeshi workers in 2025.
However, challenges persist. Labour rights issues in Qatar have drawn scrutiny, though reforms since 2017 include minimum wage laws at QAR 1,000 monthly. Bangladesh seeks better protections for its citizens, a topic likely discussed in future talks.
Background on BNP’s Victory and Regional Implications
BNP’s win marks a shift after the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League. Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, campaigned on anti-corruption and economic revival. His party allied with Jamaat-e-Islami, securing a two-thirds majority.
The election, monitored by international observers, passed a referendum on governance reforms. Rahman’s swearing-in is set for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 4:00 PM, with invitations to 13 nations, including Qatar.
In South Asia, this development influences neighbours. India, Pakistan, and China have congratulated Rahman, signalling competition for influence. Qatar’s involvement bolsters its role as a mediator, given its hosting of Taliban talks and regional diplomacy.
Bangladesh Qatar ties could expand into defence and education. Qatar funds scholarships for 2,000 Bangladeshi students annually through its Education Above All foundation. Joint ventures in renewable energy, targeting 10 gigawatts by 2030, are under discussion.
Impact on South Asian Diplomacy
The Qatari minister calls Tarique Rahman amid a wave of international outreach. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif phoned Rahman on February 13, 2026, pledging enhanced cooperation. India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message, emphasising shared history.
These interactions strengthen Bangladesh’s position in SAARC and BIMSTEC. With GDP growth at 6.5% in 2025, Bangladesh attracts foreign investment. Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund holds USD 2 billion in Bangladeshi bonds, supporting infrastructure.
Youth in Bangladesh, comprising 60% of voters, demand jobs and stability. The BNP Qatar congratulations boosts confidence, as expatriate remittances fund 8% of GDP.
What’s Next
Future meetings may formalise pacts on labour and energy. Rahman’s government plans visits to Gulf states, including Qatar, within six months. This could yield USD 1 billion in new investments.
As Bangladesh integrates into global supply chains, Bangladesh Qatar ties will play a pivotal role. The Qatari minister calls Tarique Rahman sets a positive tone for collaboration.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 16th, 2026
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