India Invites Leaders Of Seven Countries For Oath Ceremony Of Modi 3.0: Here's All About Our Relationship Potential With Them

Narendra Modi will be sworn in today (9 June) as the Prime Minister of India for a record third term paralleling the achievement of the country's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Numerous dignitaries, including leaders from seven countries with close ties to India, have been invited to attend the swearing in ceremony.

Here's a list of all the leaders who have been invited and the relationship potential that India shares with their respective nations.

1. Bangladesh: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

India and Bangladesh share deep historical ties, particularly due to India’s role in Bangladesh’s liberation. Bangladesh has been a top export destination for India, and both nations maintain strong cultural and educational exchanges.

Additionally, Bangladesh has supported India’s national security by acting against militants and separatist groups. Current efforts focus on improving connectivity and finalising a comprehensive water-sharing agreement.

2. Sri Lanka: President Ranil Wickremesinghe

India and Sri Lanka have longstanding historical connections. In 2023-24, their bilateral trade was $5,542 million, with Indian exports including petroleum and automobiles.

Despite India's unsuccessful peacekeeping intervention during Sri Lanka's civil war (1987-1990), the countries share deep religious and cultural ties, especially between Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.

Future discussions are expected to enhance maritime security cooperation, resolve maritime disputes, and strengthen economic collaboration.

3. Nepal: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda)

India and Nepal share an open-border relationship reflecting deep historical and cultural ties.

In 2023-24, bilateral trade totaled $7,871 million, with Indian exports primarily consisting of petroleum products and machinery.

The countries also share robust cultural and religious connections, with thriving tourism between them. However, past disputes over energy and water-sharing remain key issues for ongoing discussions.

India and the Maldives have long maintained close ties, highlighted by India's intervention to prevent a coup in 1988.

Recently, there have been strains due to President Muizzu’s “India Out” platform although his presence in New Delhi signals a potential thaw.

In 2023-24, trade between the nations reached $979 million, involving marine products and construction materials. Many Maldivian students also pursue higher education in India.

5. Seychelles: Vice President Ahmed Afif

India and Seychelles share a strategic relationship focused on maritime security and environmental cooperation.

In 2023-24, their trade was valued at $85 million, primarily involving fisheries and tourism. Joint heritage conservation projects have also been part of their collaboration.

Further discussions are expected to enhance environmental protection agreements to address the significant impacts of climate change on the island nation.

6. Bhutan: King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

India and Bhutan have a strong, enduring friendship with substantial economic and cultural exchanges. In 2023-24, their bilateral trade was $1.3 billion, with India being a major partner in Bhutan’s hydroelectric power sector.

Educational exchanges and collaborative efforts in preserving Bhutanese heritage are expected to be taken up to further enhance the cultural ties between both the nations.

7. Mauritius: President Prithvirajsing Roopun

India and Mauritius enjoy close relations with robust cultural and economic ties. Bilateral trade in 2023-24 was $852 million, with Mauritius exporting textiles and sugar.

The countries share cultural connections through a significant Indian diaspora in Mauritius, celebrated via regular cultural events and exchanges.

Future talks are expected to focus on enhancing strategic partnerships in digital technology and the blue economy (economic activities related to the sea).