PM Modi, Biden hold telephonic conversation, discuss Hindus in Bangladesh and more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden held a telephonic conversation on Monday where the two world leaders discussed situation of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh, the PM's recent visit to Ukraine among others.

"We also discussed the situation in Bangladesh and stressed on the need for early restoration of normalcy, and ensuring the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh," said PM Modi in his official statement.

Additionally, the top leaders also discussed PM Modi's recent visit to war-torn Ukraine. "Spoke to @POTUS

@JoeBiden on phone today. We had a detailed exchange of views on various regional and global issues, including the situation in Ukraine. I reiterated India’s full support for early return of peace and stability," said PM Modi.

Furthermore, PM conveyed his appreciation for President Biden’s deep commitment the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which is based on shared values of democracy, rule of law and strong people-to-people ties. "The leaders reviewed the significant progress in bilateral relations and highlighted that India-US partnership is aimed at benefiting the people of both countries as well as the entire humanity," said the official statement.

Hindus in Bangladesh:
Recently, PM Modi received a phone call from the head of Bangladesh's caretaker government, Muhammad Yunus, assuring New Delhi of the "protection, safety and security" of Hindus in that country.

A school teacher was killed and at least 45 people injured as homes, businesses, and temples of Hindus in Muslim-majority Bangladesh were targeted last week after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina quit and fled the country following violent protests seeking her ouster.

Hindus constitute about 8% of Bangladesh's 170 million people and have historically supported Hasina's Awami League party, which identifies as largely secular, instead of the opposition bloc that includes a hardline Islamist party.

(with agency inputs)