Pakistan, June 13 -- Bangladesh's interim government chief, Muhammad Yunus, met Tarique Rahman, leader of the main opposition BNP, in London on Friday. This was their first public meeting since Yunus took over as caretaker leader following political turmoil last year. The two leaders smiled and shook hands, suggesting a possible easing of tensions ahead of the upcoming elections.

The elections are scheduled for April 2026, the first since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule ended abruptly in August 2024. However, the BNP wants elections earlier, preferably before Ramadan starts around February 17. The election date remains a key issue in ongoing political talks between the caretaker government and opposition.

Yunus's care...