DHAKA - As Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina positions herself for another term in power amid an election day devoid of opposition, the 76-year-old leader expressed, "India is a trusted friend." She emphasized India's pivotal role in providing shelter to Bangladeshis during the 1971 Liberation War.

When questioned about her message to India on election day, Hasina conveyed, "We are very fortunate. India is our trusted friend. They supported us during our Liberation War, and after the tragic events of 1975, they offered us refuge. Our heartfelt wishes go out to the people of India."

The relationship between India and Bangladesh is characterized by historical, cultural, and economic bonds that have deepened in recent years. The rapport between Hasina and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflects this, marked by frequent personal engagements and progress on vital bilateral issues, including connectivity projects, trade liberalization, and border management.

As the leader of the ruling Awami League, Hasina is poised to secure a fourth consecutive term as Prime Minister, marking the fifth overall victory for her party. Notably, the election is marred by the absence of the country's main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

The BNP, led by the ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, opted to boycott the polls after Hasina declined its demand for resignation and the formation of a caretaker government to oversee the election. Consequently, the country has experienced a series of violent incidents.