The Jaipur Literature Festival buzzed with diplomatic undertones as Bangladesh High Commissioner Riyaz Hamidullah made a notable appearance. Engaging in the ‘Asian Drama’ discussion with prominent figures including C. Raja Mohan, Suhasini Haidar, Navtej Sarna, and Shubhijit Roy, he emphasized future collaboration between Dhaka and New Delhi.

On social media platform X, Hamidullah praised the festival’s inclusive spirit, crediting organizer Sanjoy K. Roy for providing a ‘free space’ for debate after two decades. His words underscored the value of hearing diverse perspectives in an era of charged narratives.

Tensions simmer between the neighbors, exacerbated by Bangladesh’s interim Yunus administration. Reports of minority Hindu killings have prompted sharp Indian rebukes, with calls for transparent elections to pave the way for normalized relations. Political observers predict smoother sailing post-polls.

Festival-goers also welcomed Poland’s Deputy PM Radoslaw Sikorski and his spouse. The veteran leader unpacked Europe’s geopolitical chessboard—from Ukraine’s plight to Poland’s strategic maneuvers—while reflecting on political, historical, and human dimensions of change in a Navtej Sarna-moderated talk.

This cultural crossover aligns with recent diplomatic strides. The latest India-Poland Foreign Office talks in New Delhi focused on accelerating ties in defense, tech innovation, cyber defenses, and AI. Reiterating anti-terrorism resolve, Poland advocated swift conclusion of an India-EU FTA.

Hailing the five-year roadmap from PM Modi’s Poland trip, officials noted Poland’s status as a key trade hub in its region. Sikorski’s JLF stint from January 17-19, 2026, blending literature with statecraft, exemplifies how such forums amplify global conversations amid bilateral boosts.