President Droupadi Murmu on Friday congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on assuming office as Bangladesh’s President and called for further strengthening the partnership between the two neighbouring countries, amid renewed uncertainty over Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s proposed visit to New Delhi.Related news: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir takes oath as Bangladesh’s PresidentIn a letter to Alamgir, Murmu said his “long experience of public life and political leadership” would herald a successful tenure in the service of the Bangladeshi people.“India and Bangladesh share a unique relationship, rooted in a shared history of sacrifices, close cultural ties and warm bonds of friendship,” she said.Murmu highlighted the expanding areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, technology, connectivity, youth affairs, health and education.“I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the partnership between our two neighbouring countries,” she said.The message from the President came as New Delhi and Dhaka remained engaged over the proposed visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India.The visit has not yet been formally confirmed by either side. Bangladesh said on Friday that no decision had been taken on Rahman’s reported visit and that Dhaka was awaiting New Delhi’s response to concerns raised by its Foreign Ministry.Adding to the uncertainty, Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier on Friday recalled a statement that had referred to a full rehearsal for the ceremonial welcome of the Bangladesh Prime Minister, saying the regular Change of Guard ceremony at the forecourt on August 22 would not be held. The statement was issued by the President’s Secretariat and subsequently withdrawn without an explanation.The developments come against the backdrop of efforts by New Delhi and Dhaka to navigate differences that have strained bilateral ties since the political upheaval in Bangladesh in 2024.Dhaka has sought the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India, while India has continued to engage the new administration in Bangladesh. The proposed visit by Rahman has also been affected by disagreements over the political and diplomatic environment surrounding the trip.Against this backdrop, Murmu’s message to Alamgir made no reference to the current points of friction. Instead, it underscored the broader and longstanding relationship between the two countries and expressed India’s interest in expanding cooperation.The President also conveyed her best wishes to Alamgir for his good health and happiness, the successful discharge of his responsibilities and the “continued progress and prosperity” of the people of Bangladesh.Her message comes as New Delhi seeks to maintain institutional engagement with Dhaka despite the political transition in Bangladesh and continuing differences over several bilateral issues.