In a gesture of goodwill, Bangladesh’s interim government leader, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has sent 1,000 kilograms of Haribhanga mangoes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The consignment, dispatched through the Akhaura land port, reflects a continued tradition of exchanging seasonal gifts between the two nations to strengthen bilateral ties. The sweet, fibreless Haribhanga mangoes, grown primarily in Bangladesh’s Rangpur region, were accompanied by a message of camaraderie from Yunus, signaling efforts to foster positive relations with India.
Additionally, Yunus sent 300 kilograms of the same mango variety to Tripura’s Chief Minister Manik Saha, packed in 60 cartons and delivered via the Akhaura port. This exchange is part of an annual diplomatic practice, with Tripura reciprocating by sending its renowned Queen variety pineapples to Bangladesh. These gestures highlight the deep cultural and historical connections between the two regions, which share an 800-kilometer border.
The mango shipments come at a time when Bangladesh and India are navigating complex diplomatic dynamics, including discussions on regional cooperation and minority rights. Posts on X have noted Yunus’s initiative as a step toward normalizing ties with India, Bangladesh’s largest neighbor, following recent political shifts. This act of “mango diplomacy” underscores a shared commitment to maintaining strong, neighborly relations through small but meaningful gestures.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 13th, 2025
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