[🇧🇩] China is a Time Tested Friend and a Strategic Partner of Bangladesh

[Saif]

Touhid-Wang meeting on 21 January: Issues to gain priority

China's focus is on signing GDI and past projects which have been held up. Dhaka is interested in financial assistance from China and relocation of industries to Bangladesh.

en.prothomalo.com

Touhid-Wang meeting on 21 January: Issues to gain priority
Bangladesh needs to proceed with caution since China is laying emphasis on geopolitics. It is undeniable that the West, the US in particular, has expansive support and cooperation for the present government. So it would not be prudent for Bangladesh to take any such step that may go against the country's interests
Raheed Ejaz
Dhaka
Published: 06 Jan 2025, 15: 22

Touhid Hossain (L) and Wang Li

A minister-level meeting is to be with China after the change of political backdrop following the student-people's uprising in Bangladesh. Foreign advisor Md Touhid Hossain will meeting with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on 21 January in Beijing. This will be the first bilateral meeting of the foreign advisor with any country after the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus took over power.

Diplomatic sources of Dhaka and Beijing tell Prothom Alo, Touhid Hossain will leave on 20 January for a four-day visit to Beijing. On the sidelines of the foreign minister level visit, he will also exchange views with senior leaders of the Communist Party in two important cities of China. He will also speak at two research institutions in Beijing and Shanghai.

Wang Yi sent a letter to Touhid Hossain towards the beginning of December inviting him to visit Beijing. Touhid Hossain replied to Wang Yi in the last week of December, accepting the invitation to visit China.

Several senior officials of the foreign ministry informed this correspondent that as the formal meeting will be held in Beijing, so the agenda of the meeting will be proposed by China. Bangladesh will then respond to the proposal and the matter will be finalised. However, the meeting will give priority to strengthening economic ties in the future, with the inclusion of business, investment, infrastructure development and more.

China may also bring forward the development projects signed during the past government in Bangladesh, which have not progressed. China will also place importance on signing an MoU to attach Bangladesh it its Global Development Initiative (GDI).

Another official said that during preparatory discussions regarding the visit, Chinese officials hinted that Beijing would focus in GDI and the pending projects.

Bangladesh and China are to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations this year. In this backdrop, various initiatives will be discussed including exchange visits at various levels.

Speaking to Prothom Alo, Touhid Hossain said, "I will be visit Beijing on 20 January at the invitation of the Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. Alongside formal meetings, there may be several other discussions. The agenda of the meeting, events and other details are likely to be finalised within the next couple of days."

China's special interest in geopolitics

According to diplomatic experts, while there are to be discussions on taking bilateral relations ahead, China also has special interest in geopolitics. China particularly wants to use the changed political circumstances in Bangladesh to forge close ties with the administration here. It is playing attention to take opportunity of these crossroads leading to democracy in Bangladesh. Bangladesh's relations with neighbouring India are fraught with tension since the political changeover. China wants to use this opportunity to build closer relations with Bangladesh.

For some years now China has been pouring investment into South Asian countries in order to tackle the US in the region. After Professor Yunus took over in August, 12 companies of China have invested USD 210 million in Bangladesh. Through these investments, China is sending out the message that it will continue to extend all-out support to the interim government.

According to international affairs analysts, Bangladesh needs to proceed with caution since China is laying emphasis on geopolitics. It is undeniable that the West, the US in particular, has expansive support and cooperation for the present government. So it would not be prudent for Bangladesh to take any such step that may go against the country's interests. It is no secret that the US in not at ease with the strained Bangladesh-India relations and Bangladesh's proximity with China.

A senior-level policymaker of the government, on condition of anonymity, said the government is paying special attention to the foreign advisor's China visit. Several friendly countries are paying particular attention to this visit and so the government will not take any hasty decision that may complicate the country's international relations.​

 

[Saif]

Leveraging ties with China to influence India

Bangladesh’s geopolitical location within South Asia is at the very heart of an unfolding intricate geopolitical competition between two regional giants, namely China and India. An emerging economy with vital sea routes, major river systems, and growing markets, Bangladesh has become a strate

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Leveraging ties with China to influence India
Serajul I Bhuiyan

Published :
Jan 12, 2025 00:10
Updated :
Jan 12, 2025 00:10

Bangladesh’s geopolitical location within South Asia is at the very heart of an unfolding intricate geopolitical competition between two regional giants, namely China and India. An emerging economy with vital sea routes, major river systems, and growing markets, Bangladesh has become a strategically important country far beyond its borders. Its ever-growing economic, political, and security links with China have opened new diplomatic avenues in recent years, hence providing a unique opportunity to reshape its bilateral negotiations with India.

From the issues of water-sharing agreements related to the Ganges and Teesta Rivers, passing through trade imbalances up to regional connectivity projects, Bangladesh would be in a more advantageous position towards pressing for equative solutions once strategically aligned with China. Stronger relations will enable Bangladesh to increase its bargaining leverage and persuade India to be more cooperative and flexible on unresolved bilateral issues.

As Henry Kissinger once said, “Control of geography means control of destiny.” In the case of Bangladesh, its geographical reality is a prized player in South Asia’s strategic landscape-a position that could, if used correctly, redefine its relations both with India and China. This article, presented in two parts, explores how Bangladesh can use its growing ties with China to secure its national interests while navigating the geopolitical complexities of South Asia.

Why Timing is Everything: The current global geopolitical environment provides a perfect opportunity for Bangladesh to establish itself as a regional powerbroker. With China’s BRI reaching out across Asia and India trying to hold its influence in South Asia, Bangladesh has become a key focal point in the strategic competition. This rivalry offers Dhaka a diplomatic window to strengthen its foreign policy through balanced engagement with both nations.

As the former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright once said, “What matters is how well we use the cards we’ve been dealt.” For Bangladesh, leveraging its geographic and economic significance can turn diplomatic challenges into actionable opportunities, setting a model for balanced international relations in a rapidly evolving world.

Setting the Stage: India has always looked upon the rise of Chinese influence in South Asia with a degree of skepticism and views its growing relationships with countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal as part of its “String of Pearls” strategy aimed at the encirclement of India. This perception has indeed been one of the drivers that have compelled India to increase its diplomatic outreach and economic engagements with Bangladesh, particularly in areas where Chinese influence has grown the most.

By aligning itself strategically with China, Bangladesh’s bargaining position in crucial issues like the sharing of waters, trade, connectivity, and security with India turns stronger. Thus, India, while needing to retain its regional pre-eminence and contain the growth in Chinese clout, will have to agree to better terms in bilateral agreements that Dhaka can wrench.

This article is a two-part series on how Bangladesh can use its relationship with China to break a number of longstanding impasses with India while enhancing its strategic and economic future in South Asia. In this part of the article, we cover the following issues:

Strategic Leverage Through China’s Regional Influence: China’s growing geopolitical influence over South Asia through BRI, GDI, and GSI has amplified the level of Indian unease over the fast-fleeting leverages over Bangladesh. India perceives this growing relationship between Beijing and Dhaka as part of a Chinese policy aimed at containing India within its “String of Pearls”: securing key infrastructure and strategic outposts in South Asia with the aim of encircling India. It is this budding rivalry that provides an important bargaining chip to Bangladesh in negotiating various issues with India.

Application to Bilateral Issues: Ganges Water Agreement and Teesta Water Sharing. Bangladesh and India have more than 50 transboundary rivers, and agreements on the sharing of their waters have been a recurring issue. The Ganges Water Treaty of 1996 was a path-breaking agreement, but its implementation has more often than not been mired in controversy due to the scarcity of water during the dry seasons. At the same time, the Teesta River issue, so vital to Bangladesh’s agrarian economy, has been unresolved for over a decade. Despite numerous diplomatic engagements, an internal consensus has eluded India because of opposition by the West Bengal state government, and the deadlock has dragged on.

The unresolved water-sharing disputes put at risk millions of livelihoods in Bangladesh, making it imperative for Dhaka to seek alternative means of diplomatic pressure. In this context, China’s upstream control over major South Asian rivers such as the Brahmaputra offers a geopolitical counterbalance that is simply too tempting for Bangladesh to resist.

China as Strategic Leverage. With China’s vast experience in managing transboundary rivers-including but not limited to the Mekong, Brahmaputra, and Yangtze-it exercises enormous influence within the region on issues of water politics. Greater cooperation over water could extend to or be pushed through Chinese technical help with flood control, building of dams, and river navigation, all of which will make India uncomfortable with loss of the high strategic elbowroom.

If Bangladesh secures water infrastructure development projects from China, there is a likelihood of India feeling certain pressure to fast-track the long-pending Teesta water-sharing agreement for fear of allowing Bangladesh to further slip into China’s strategic orbit. Using China’s expertise in water diplomacy might, at a time of increasing shortage and regional competition, turn Bangladesh into a vital water management partner in South Asia.

Incentives for India at the Diplomatic Level. Balancing China’s intensifying relations with Bangladesh, India can be more cooperative and pragmatic by giving favorable terms in the water-sharing agreement and broader infrastructure cooperation. Measures that may be taken include the following:

Expedite the Teesta Agreement. India should push for finalizing the Teesta water-sharing agreement to remove one of the most important contentious bilateral issues between the two neighbors.

Go for Multilateral Water Diplomacy. India may agree to trilateral water-sharing talks involving China in order to avoid further marginalization with respect to regional water diplomacy.

More Investment in Water Infrastructure: India can propose new projects of water management with more investment in the construction of dams, flood management systems, and irrigation networks in order to outpace Chinese-funded projects in Bangladesh.

Regional and Strategic Implications: Water disputes in South Asia also have wider geopolitical implications: “Fierce competition for freshwater may well become a source of conflict in the future.”-Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General. If India delays the right pace for an equitable water-sharing agreement, China’s growing influence in the management of water might introduce irreversible changes in the geopolitics of South Asia, binding India to rapid and pragmatic measures.

Window of Opportunity for Equitable Solutions: Bangladesh’s growing partnership with China brings both pressure and opportunity for India to resolve long-standing water-sharing disputes. In this respect, India should reconsider its water diplomacy strategy and approach Bangladesh with much more urgency and flexibility. As the former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee once said, “You can change friends but not neighbors.” Resolving water-sharing disputes would guarantee Bangladesh’s long-term need for water and foster a relationship of mutual trust and regional stability.

Economic Bargaining Through Chinese: Investments China has emerged as the largest trading partner of Bangladesh, investing billions of dollars in strategic infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge, Payra Deep-Sea Port, and various industrial zones. Such Chinese-aided initiatives speed up economic development for Bangladesh on one hand and strengthen its bargaining leverage in trade negotiations with India on the other, against its current huge trade surplus with that country.

Diversification of Trade Partnerships and Reduction of Economic Dependency. Bangladesh always runs a constant trade deficit with India since its imports far outweigh exports. The dominant position of India in the import market of Bangladesh has been a contentious issue, both economically as well as politically, for quite a long time now. In this backdrop, closer trade relations with China would allow Bangladesh to reduce dependence on Indian goods through diversification of its imports.

The strong manufacturing base in China creates a wide range of products available for Bangladesh, from consumer goods to industrial machinery, serving as bargaining chips with which it may negotiate better trade terms with India. Also, China’s Belt and Road Initiative promises to create superior trade routes to Bangladesh by circumventing Indian-controlled transit corridors.

Incentivising Bilateral Trade Negotiations. The threat of losing out on market dominance to China might coerce India into renegotiating its trade agreements with Bangladesh through the following means: (a) Reduction in Tariffs. Tariffs on Bangladeshi textiles, jute, and agro-products can come down. (b) Removing Trade Barriers. Reduce nontariff barriers to have smooth customs procedures and thereby allow trade to flourish. (c) Market Access Expansion. India may provide greater market access to the northeastern markets where Bangladeshi products enjoy proximity competitiveness.

Competitive Trade Environment. As Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen once said, “Trade is an engine of development.” Greater economic competition between India and China for influence over Bangladesh could imply more foreign direct investment, improvement in trade infrastructure, and opening of new markets to Bangladeshi exporters.

More importantly, India’s proactive economic engagement in the urge to balance China might reshape the regional trade landscape to the benefit of Bangladesh and its trading partners. This could mean a surge in economic independence and geopolitical standing of Bangladesh in South Asia.

Strategic Power for the Future of Bangladesh: In essence strengthening its ties with China would, therefore, reshape the Bangladesh regional diplomacy, in such a way as to use the leverages of both economic and geopolitical compulsions in trying to push India toward more cooperative and mutually advantageous bilateral negotiations. The Ganges and Teesta water-sharing agreements, trade imbalances, and regional connectivity remain outstanding issues between the two countries; here lies a promising direction through which Bangladesh can strike favorable terms with India.

This would, therefore, be an implication of such an approach to pursue a balanced foreign policy but carefully calibrated for interests from both China and India while safeguarding sovereignty and economic futures. Thus, as Bangladesh positions itself to act as the bridge between two contending powers, geographic vulnerability should emerge as a source of strategic strength, with its bright promise to rise as the premier regional powerbroker of South Asia.

As former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger so aptly put it, “The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been.” Bangladesh has the chance, through bold and visionary leadership, to transcend its historic challenges in today’s rapidly changing world. With foresight in diplomacy and strategic partnerships, it can reinvent its role for the region in such a way that long-standing disputes become milestones of progress toward securing a future marked with stability, prosperity, and global relevance.

Dr Serajul I Bhuiyan is a Professor and Former Chair, Department of Journalism and Mass Communications, Savannah State University, Georgia, USA. He did his MBA and Ph.D. from USA universities.​

 

[Saif]

Balancing ties with China and India

In the previous article (Part I), we have discussed how Bangladesh’s emerging economic relationship with China can lead to new developments in its bilateral negotiations with India, which are required for resolving some of the crucial issues like Ganges and Teesta water-sharing disputes, trad

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Balancing ties with China and India
Serajul I Bhuiyan
Published :
Jan 12, 2025 20:52
Updated :
Jan 12, 2025 20:52

In the previous article (Part I), we have discussed how Bangladesh’s emerging economic relationship with China can lead to new developments in its bilateral negotiations with India, which are required for resolving some of the crucial issues like Ganges and Teesta water-sharing disputes, trade imbalances, and economic dependency. We emphasized how China’s expanding influence in South Asia, particularly through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), presents Bangladesh with unique opportunities to strengthen its bargaining power with India. By diversifying its economic ties, attracting Chinese investments, and enhancing water resource management through Chinese-backed infrastructure projects, Bangladesh can push India toward more cooperative and equitable agreements.

Building on these strategic insights, Part II explores in greater detail how Bangladesh’s defense, security, infrastructure, and diplomatic partnerships with China might continue to reshape India’s engagement of the region. We discuss how security cooperation with China might encourage India to upgrade its military relations with Bangladesh toward more regional stability and robust bilateral dialogues. We also examine how Bangladesh’s increasing infrastructure development under China’s BRI might force India to accelerate its cross-border connectivity projects in order to maintain regional competitiveness.

Finally, we discuss how Bangladesh’s improved diplomatic standing in key regional organizations such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Economic Corridor can strengthen its influence on India regarding unresolved issues like trade agreements, transit arrangements, and water-sharing negotiations. As former U.S. As the Secretary of State Henry Kissinger wisely said, “In crises, the most daring decision is often the safest.” By using its strategic relationship with China, Bangladesh can turn the tables and change its regional position so that India will have to approach bilateral negotiations with greater urgency, flexibility, and mutual respect.

This second part comprehensively analyzes how Bangladesh can convert its geo-economic vulnerabilities into strategic assets by balancing its relations with both regional giants. A well-calibrated foreign policy driven by national interest may transform Bangladesh from a passive regional player to an assertive diplomatic force capable of shaping the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.

Security and Defense Balance: China’s expanding role as a defense supplier to Bangladesh has fundamentally altered the regional security dynamics of South Asia. By supplying submarines, naval vessels, missile systems, and advanced military technologies, China has positioned itself as a critical defense partner for Bangladesh. India views this growing military cooperation with unease, realizing that its traditional strategic dominance in the region is under threat.

Security Dialogues and Cooperation. Bangladesh’s growing defense relationship with China may influence India to seek deeper security arrangements with Dhaka. India may further strengthen maritime security cooperation, counterterrorism operations, and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to retain its leverage in Bangladesh’s security calculus.

This may be done by expanding the scope of bilateral security dialogues on: (a) Maritime Stability: Joint naval exercises and coordinated patrols in the Bay of Bengal to counter China’s growing naval presence. (b) Counterterrorism and Border Management: Expanding cross-border security protocols to combat smuggling, trafficking, and insurgency-related threats. (c) Defense Technology and Training: Increasing military training programs and defense technology transfers to Bangladesh’s armed forces.

As aptly noted by former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Proactive security cooperation with Bangladesh would reduce India’s anxiety over China’s strategic military foothold in South Asia.

Broader Regional Security and Strategic Stability. A greater regional framework involving Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar on security issues in order to balance China’s fast-developing defense relations in the Bay of Bengal would not be out of place either. The cooperation in disaster management, peacekeeping operations, and maritime security, meanwhile, will further reinforce the regional stability against China’s strategic depth in South Asia.

As former Indian National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon once said, “Regional cooperation in security is not a luxury but a necessity for maintaining peace and development in South Asia.” India’s recalibrated security policy toward Bangladesh could exemplify this philosophy.

Negotiation on Infrastructure and Connectivity: The BRI has shaped Bangladesh’s infrastructure landscape, wherein projects such as the Payra Deep-Sea Port, Karnaphuli Tunnel, and Padma Bridge have enhanced economic connectivity. India needs to fast-track its cross-border transit agreements and connectivity projects so that China does not monopolize critical infrastructure development in Bangladesh.

Strengthening Transit and Connectivity Arrangements

India could fast-track key infrastructure projects such as: (a) India-Bangladesh Coastal Shipping Agreement: developing sea-borne trade through ports at Chattogram and Mongla, among others. (b) Expanding cargo routes through Indian northeastern states via the so-called BBIN corridor for transshipment. (c) Reinforcing cross-border rail lines, such as the Agartala-Akhaura and Kolkata-Chattogram routes.

By developing connectivity projects, India can decrease the dependence of Bangladesh on China-funded infrastructure, thus ensuring far greater regional integration.

Strategic Impact on Regional Trade. Improved transit arrangements would place Bangladesh as a strategic trade hub, connecting South Asia and Southeast Asia. More regional trade corridors would also lead to the diversification of Bangladesh’s economic partners and greater economic independence from China.

As former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh aptly said, “Connectivity is the lifeline of the economy in the modern world.” In chasing mutual infrastructure objectives, Bangladesh and India could achieve higher efficiency in trade and greater regional integration.

Diplomatic Maneuvering in Regional Organizations. Bangladesh’s improved relations with China have given the country a higher status in powerful regional platforms such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Economic Corridor. This increased diplomatic profile provides substantial strategic leverage vis-à-vis India.

Enhancement of Bangladesh’s Strategic Leverage

China’s international reach in multilateral organizations provides yet another platform to Bangladesh for putting pressure on India on critical issues relating to water-sharing and trade integration. China, an important player in water management and economic projects, is likely to convince India through its involvement towards a more cooperative attitude.

Strategic Influence on Bilateral Engagements. It might push India to offer better trade, water-sharing, and investment deals as a counterbalance to the fast-expanding role of China in Bangladesh’s strategic affairs: faster resolution of the long-stalled Teesta Water Treaty, reduced trade tariffs, and more development aid packages.

As former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger wisely said, “In crises, the most daring decision is often the safest.” The more Bangladesh could establish its strategic worth through Sino-Bangladeshi cooperation, the better the deals it could negotiate with India.

Conclusion: A Strategic Balancing Act for Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s deepening ties with China present a critical opportunity to reshape its regional diplomacy by balancing India’s dominance while advancing its national development goals. Strengthening its economic partnership, expanding military cooperation, and securing diplomatic support from China can help Bangladesh address long-standing bilateral challenges with India—particularly in water-sharing agreements, trade negotiations, security dialogues, and cross-border infrastructure projects.

All of that, however, requires tremendous skill in diplomacy, political foresight, and strategic patience. This art of balance between China and India is a delicate balance for Bangladesh, in which neither should be given disproportionate influence while fostering cooperation where there is a benefit to her national interests. As once famously said by Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, “In the end, geopolitics is about balance of power. You align where your interests lie.”

By leveraging China’s strategic investments while enjoying constructive relations with India, Bangladesh has an opportunity to evolve from a regional underdog into a significant powerbroker in South Asia. How well the country negotiates concessions, secures fair treaties, and further strengthens its economy depends on this tightrope walk. As former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger aptly said, “In crises, the most daring decision is often the safest.”

Bangladesh now stands on the threshold of redefining its geopolitical future-turning geographic vulnerabilities into strategic assets under a robust foreign policy framework. It is capable of transforming regional challenges into platforms for lasting stability, prosperity, and global recognition with prudent, visionary leadership and a well-defined national vision. As the Chinese proverb goes: “When the wind of change blows, some build walls, others build windmills.”

It is time for Bangladesh to build its windmills, harnessing the changing geopolitical winds to secure a brighter, more resilient future.

Dr. Serajul I Bhuiyan is Professor and Former Chair, Department of Journalism and Mass Communications, Savannah State University, Georgia, USA.​

 

[Saif]

FOREIGN ADVISER’S CHINA VISIT: Talks on Teesta project likely

Foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said that Bangladesh and China were set to renew the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries on the sharing of hydrological data on the River Brahmaputra during the flood season and the renewal of the MoU would pave the way...

www.newagebd.net

FOREIGN ADVISER’S CHINA VISIT: Talks on Teesta project likely
Staff Correspondent 16 January, 2025, 00:40

Foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said that Bangladesh and China were set to renew the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries on the sharing of hydrological data on the River Brahmaputra during the flood season and the renewal of the MoU would pave the way for reopening talks on the Teesta project during his forthcoming visit to China.

‘We are going to renew the MoU we have with China relating river management as it has already expired. This is a guiding principle and so the renewal of the MoU would make ways for discussion on river management,’ he said, while briefing reporters on his first bilateral visit to China from January 20 to January 24 at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart after the formation of the interim government in August 2024.

The adviser also said that they would also request Beijing for its role in creating a congenial atmosphere in Myanmar for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis so that over 11 lakh forcibly displaced people sheltered in Bangladesh camps could be sent to their homeland.

He, however, said that Bangladesh side would request China to lower loan interest rates and extend repayment terms to 30 years in general from different terms and would discuss Beijing’s commitment for budget support.

Touhid said that Bangladesh’s relation with large countries like India, China and the United States was crucial and so it would maintain balance regarding the relationship with these countries.

During the regime of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, India in May past year expressed its willingness to support a mega development project on the trans-boundary River Teesta inside Bangladesh, where China had already shown its interest and completed a survey there, which led the negotiation to a stalemate.

Asked whether they would discuss the much-talked about Teesta project that became uncertain as India had expressed its willingness to support the project on the trans-boundary river, Touhid, also a retired diplomat, said that the renewal of the MoU, which was a guiding principle for them, would pave the way for discussion over river management issues.

‘We will discuss all issues keeping in view our own interests,’ he said, adding that his visit would focus on economic cooperation, commerce and trade expansion as China was the largest trading partner of Bangladesh.

Later, in June 2024, India announced that it would send a technical team to Bangladesh to discuss ‘conservation and management of the Teesta River in Bangladesh’ as the bilateral talks between Hasina and Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, then her Indian counterpart, ended in New Delhi without any breakthrough in the long pending water sharing deal on the common river.

New Delhi has long been foot-dragging on the Teesta water-sharing treaty with Dhaka, adversely affecting the lives and livelihoods of the people in the Rangpur region.

Originating in Sikkim in India and entering Bangladesh through Lalmonirhat, the 315-kilometre-long Teesta travels more than 150 kilometres through half a dozen other districts, including Rangpur, Gaibandha, Nilphamari and Kurigram, before merging with the River Jamuna at Fulchhari.​

 

[Saif]

Dhaka-Beijing to celebrate 50 years of bilateral ties

The inauguration of the celebration is expected to be announced during foreign adviser's visit to China

www.thedailystar.net

Dhaka-Beijing to celebrate 50 years of bilateral ties
The inauguration of the celebration is expected to be announced during foreign adviser's visit to China

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain are expected to formally announce the inauguration of celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations during the latter's visit to China.

"The visit is set to strengthen the deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership shared by both nations, signalling a renewed commitment to advancing their strategic cooperation," according to statement from the foreign ministry.

The statement came after a meeting between Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin and Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen at the foreign minister today.

The meeting was held ahead of the Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain's visit to China scheduled for 20–24 January.

The meeting highlighted the preparation of the visit.

They underlined that the upcoming visit of the adviser would carry special significance as it is the first official bilateral visit of the foreign adviser this year.

Ambassador Yao Wen expressed China's sincere appreciation for Bangladesh's unwavering support to One-China Policy.

He reaffirmed China's firm respect for Bangladesh's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reiterated China's continued support for Bangladesh's stability, reforms, and democratic transition.

He emphasised that this visit would further cement the cooperative ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Wen also underscored the importance of strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, with a particular focus on projects like the China Economic Zone in Chattogram and the enhancement of connectivity initiatives.

He also emphasised the importance of practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in sectors such as digital connectivity and port modernisation.

Regional and global issues also featured in the discussions, including the ongoing Rohingya crisis.

The foreign secretary conveyed Bangladesh's deep appreciation for China's active role in facilitating dialogue on the issues and sought China's continued support in ensuring an early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.

Both sides expressed a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.

The meeting also touched upon exchange of visits and agreed that such visits will further strengthen the bilateral relationship and contribute to greater cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.​

 

[Saif]

Dhaka, Beijing eye strengthened cooperation during Foreign Adviser’s maiden bilateral trip

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's planned visit to China is set to strengthen the deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership shared by both nations, signalling a renewed commitment to advancing their strategic cooperation. Bangladesh and China expressed optimism that the Fore

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Dhaka, Beijing eye strengthened cooperation during Foreign Adviser’s maiden bilateral trip
UNB
Published :
Jan 17, 2025 00:03
Updated :
Jan 17, 2025 00:03

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's planned visit to China is set to strengthen the deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership shared by both nations, signalling a renewed commitment to advancing their strategic cooperation. Bangladesh and China expressed optimism that the Foreign Adviser's visit will pave the way for a "new chapter of cooperation" between Bangladesh and China.

During the visit, the top diplomats of the two countries are expected to formally announce the inauguration of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador of China to Bangladesh Yao Wen met Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the Ministry on Thursday ahead of the Foreign Adviser's visit to China scheduled for 20-24 January.

The meeting mainly highlighted the preparation of Foreign Adviser's visit on both sides.

It was underlined that the upcoming visit would "carry special significance" as it is the first official bilateral visit of Adviser Hossain this year.

The Ambassador expressed China's sincere appreciation for Bangladesh's unwavering support to One-China Policy.

He reaffirmed China's firm respect for Bangladesh's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reiterated China's continued support for Bangladesh's stability, reforms, and democratic transition.

The envoy emphasised that this visit would further cement the cooperative ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Wen also underscored the importance of strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, with a particular focus on projects like the China Economic Zone in Chattogram and the enhancement of connectivity initiatives.

He also emphasised the importance of practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in sectors such as digital connectivity and port modernisation.

Regional and global issues also featured in the discussions, notably the ongoing Rohingya crisis.

The Foreign Secretary conveyed Bangladesh's deep appreciation for China's active role in facilitating dialogue on the issue and sought China's continued support in ensuring an early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.

Both sides expressed a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.

The meeting also touched upon exchange of visits and agreed that such visits will further strengthen the bilateral relationship and contribute to greater cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.​

 

[Saif]

China contemplates lowering interest rates for Bangladesh: envoy

China is seriously considering a request from Dhaka to lower its interest rates of its credits for Bangladesh, Chinese ambassador Yao Wen said here today, a day ahead of Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain’s scheduled visit to his country.

www.newagebd.net

China contemplates lowering interest rates for Bangladesh: envoy
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 19 January, 2025, 20:38

Chinese ambassador Yao Wen pays call on | BSS photo

China is seriously considering a request from Dhaka to lower its interest rates of its credits for Bangladesh, Chinese ambassador Yao Wen said on Suinday, a day ahead of foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain’s scheduled visit to his country.

According to a Bangladesh foreign ministry statement, the ambassador called on Hossain and ‘apprised the foreign adviser that China is seriously considering to lower down its interest rates for Bangladesh’.

It said Beijing was ready as well to sign an implementation plan on exchange of hydrological information with Bangladesh in line with a previous request from Dhaka.

‘China is the all-weather, time-tested friend of Bangladesh which firmly stands with the people of Bangladesh irrespective of its governments,’ the statement quoted the ambassador as saying during his meeting with Hossain.

Hossain is set to fly to Beijing on Monday on a five-day official visit, the first ever by the foreign affairs adviser equivalent to minister of the interim government.

‘The ambassador also informed the foreign adviser that during the upcoming visit Chinese side is ready to sign implementation plan on exchange of hydrological information with Bangladesh which was previously sent by Bangladesh side,’ it read.

The adviser, on the other hand, requested China to designate at least three to four top notch hospitals in Kunming, close to Bangladesh territory, to provide better medical treatment to Bangladeshis.

Hossain said Bangladesh was also ready to provide land and other logistics for setting-up a full-fledged tertiary level Chinese hospital in Purbachal on the outskirts of Dhaka.

‘The Chinese ambassador said that China will do everything for the benefit of the people of Bangladesh,’ the statement said.

The ambassador touched upon the issues to be discussed during the official talks led by Hossain and the Chinese foreign minister.

According to the statement both the envoy and the adviser expressed their hope Hossain’s China tour to open up a new chapter of cooperation between the two friendly countries.

The visit coincides with the establishment of the 50th anniversary of Dhaka-Beijing diplomatic ties while the adviser said, his visit would strengthen deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership advancing the strategic as well as technical cooperation between the two nations.

Hossain told the envoy that Dhaka expects a ‘very strong’ and ‘proactive’ Chinese role for Rohingyas repatriation to their homeland in Myanmar as they were forced to take makeshift refuge in Bangladesh.

In response, the statement said, the ambassador said that China would continue its support for the early repatriation of Rohingyas to their motherland in Myanmar.

Yao reaffirmed that China respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh and reiterated that China would continue its support for the stability, reforms, and democratic transition and development initiatives of Bangladesh.

The foreign adviser said that Bangladesh appreciated 100% Duty Free Quota Free market access of Bangladeshi products to China and expressed his hope that this market access would continue till 2029 after the post-LDC period for three years.

In response, the ambassador said that along with mangoes, this year Bangladeshi guava and jackfruits would also have the market access to China.

The adviser asked for Chinese high tech energy efficient supports for developing fruits storage and preservation capacity in Bangladesh.

Hossain also sought Chinese support for adding up more railway passenger coaches under capacity building initiatives of Bangladesh Railways.

The foreign adviser’s official visit to China, scheduled for January 20-24, marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh-China relations according to foreign relations experts and comes at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Hossain would also deliver speeches at the China Institute of International Studies and the Shanghai Institute of International Studies and scheduled to meet business representatives in Shanghai to promote Chinese investment in Bangladesh, foreign ministry officials said.​

 

[Saif]

Brahmaputra, Teesta under spotlight

Bangladesh will raise the issue of Chinese dam on the Brahmaputra at the upcoming bilateral meeting in Beijing on January 21, when the stalled Teesta project may also come up. Sources in the foreign ministry told The Financial Express about the move as Bangladesh foreign adviser Touhid Hossain lea

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Crucial China-Bangladesh Beijing talks
Brahmaputra, Teesta under spotlight
No negative impact on downstream countries: China
MIR MOSTAFIZUR RAHAMAN
Published :
Jan 20, 2025 00:33
Updated :
Jan 20, 2025 00:33

Bangladesh will raise the issue of Chinese dam on the Brahmaputra at the upcoming bilateral meeting in Beijing on January 21, when the stalled Teesta project may also come up.

Sources in the foreign ministry told The Financial Express about the move as Bangladesh foreign adviser Touhid Hossain leaves for Beijing today (Monday) for meeting his counterpart, the foreign minister of China.

"Water-resources cooperation will highly be featured in the meeting," officials said, adding that Bangladesh "will try to understand whether the dam on the international river Brahmaputra to be constructed by the Chinese side will affect Bangladesh."

About the stalled Teesta project -- economic lifeline of agrarian northern Bangladesh -- officials said Teesta is not officially included in the meeting agenda but may come up as water cooperation will be a prime focus in talks.

They mentioned that though China completed primary feasibility study on the Teesta project on request of Bangladesh government during the Hasina regime two years ago, Bangladesh refrained from advancing the project.

Rather, during the visit of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina last year, Bangladesh involved India with the project, which, practically, complicated the scheme.

Following that development, the Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka told the FE that if Bangladesh wanted, China was interested to implement the project in partnership with other countries.

Talking about China's involvement with the multipurpose Teesta project, foreign adviser Towhid Hossain told the media that Bangladesh would renew the MoU on water-resources cooperation with China during his visit and Teesta issue would "naturally come up in connection with water-resources cooperation".

According to officials, Bangladesh will raise the issue of the Chinese dam upstream the Brahmaputra River during the meeting.

China announced its decision to build the dam four years ago, and recently, it approved the construction of the world's largest dam, rated as planet's biggest, on the Brahmaputra in Tibet near the Indian border.

In December last year, the Chinese government sanctioned the development of a hydropower facility on the lower section of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which is the Tibetan name for the Brahmaputra.

The US$137-billion, mega-infrastructure project has raised concerns in downstream countries, including India and Bangladesh, over potential impacts on water flow.

According to the South China Morning Post, the cost of this dam project will exceed any infrastructure project globally, including China's Three Gorges Dam, currently considered world's largest.

Bangladesh is heavily dependent on external sources for water. The 1,800-km-long Brahmaputra, which enters Bangladesh from India after originating from Tibet region under China, is the largest source of external water for Bangladesh.

If both the countries withdraw water in the upstream from the Brahmaputra, Bangladesh will be rendered a barren land, environmentalists forewarn.

The total water resource of Bangladesh is estimated at 1,210,644 million cubic metres, of which 1,105,644 cubic metres come from sources beyond the borders.

"We may see heavy water flow when we do not need water, and there might be no water in the dry season when we require it most," a senior official of the Ministry of Water Resources told the FE recently.

According to statistics, at least 60 per cent of Bangladesh's population relies on the Brahmaputra-catchment basin.

A catchment or basin is an ecological system of drainage that sees rainfall or river waters drained into the surrounding environment, and can be accessed through lakes, wells or small tributary rivers.

Officials say constructing dams in the upstream means that the countries concerned will have the leverage to withdraw or release water as per their requirement.

China first disclosed its plan to construct a dam on the Brahmaputra when Yan Zhiyong, chairman of the Power Construction Corp of China or POWERCHINA, said China would implement its hydropower-exploration plan in the downstream of the international river.

The new dam is planned to produce at least 60 gigawatts (GW) of electricity. To put that into perspective, one GW is the quantity of energy captured by 3.125 million solar panels or 412 wind turbines. One GW is also enough to power 110 million LED lights, says an analyst.

In March 2019, China's parliament adopted the 14th five-year plan, which included the hydropower project on the Brahmaputra in Tibet near India's Arunachal Pradesh.

India announced a plan to construction a hydroelectric dam with 10-GW capacity in Arunachal to mitigate adverse impact of the Chinese dam.

The planned dam would create a large water-storage capacity in India to offset effect of the Chinese dam on water flow, an official of the Indian water resources ministry said.

However, talking to the FE on the Chinese dam project, Dr Ainun Nishat, a leading environment expert, suggested trilateral cooperation to reap benefit from the Chinese dam project.

"If China is going to produce electricity through constructing a dam on the Brahmaputra in the upstream, Bangladesh can negotiate to have a share in the project," he said.

"We can invest partly, and have a share of the power generated from the project. India can also join us, so that the negative effect of the project can also be minimised through consultations."

About campaigns against construction of the proposed dams, he said dams are essential for many reasons, including flood management.

"I am not against construction of dams, but the dams should be constructed in a manner so that these will not cause serious harm to ecology and locality."

The expert adds: "Previously dams were built according to the design of engineers, but now we suggest stakeholder consultation before designing a dam."

On the other hand, Chinese officials have said they would address the concern of both India and Bangladesh over this issue.

"The project will not have a negative impact on the ecological environment, geological conditions and the rights and interests related to water resources of downstream countries," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said earlier this week to allay India's concerns.

Earlier, soon after the disclosure of the dam-building plan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying was asked about it in a media briefing in Beijing.

She said, "Hydropower development in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River is China's legitimate right. When it comes to use and development of cross-border rivers, China always acts responsibly."

China has a policy featuring development and conservation, and all projects will go through science-based planning and assessment, giving full consideration to impact downstream and accommodating interests of both the upstream and downstream regions.

The development of the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo is in the early stages of planning and assessment, she noted.

"There is no need to read too much into that."

Regarding the concerns in India and Bangladesh, she said, "For a long time, China, India and Bangladesh have had good cooperation in sharing hydrological information, flood and disaster reduction and contingency management. We will continue our communication through existing channels.

"There is no need for any anxiety in this matter."

According to international law, the countries that are upstream of a river have the sovereignty to build dams on their stretch of water, even though it may impact the countries further downstream.

However, the right is balanced by the principles of 'reasonable use' and 'no harm'.

But China is not a party to the UN Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes.

Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen met Adviser for Foreign Affairs of the interim government Md. Touhid Hossain on Sunday morning at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs exchanging views on what to come out of the Dhaka-Beijing talks.

The envoy informed the Foreign Adviser that during his upcoming visit, the Chinese side is ready to sign implementation plan on exchange of hydrological information with Bangladesh which was previously sent by Bangladesh side.

He also apprised the adviser that China is seriously considering lowering its interest rates in lending to Bangladesh.

"China is the all-weather, time-tested friend of Bangladesh which firmly stands with the people of Bangladesh irrespective of its government," the Ambassador said.

He said standing beside Bangladesh with the spirit of good friend and neighbour, China will continue its support for the early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals (FDMN) to their motherland in Myanmar.​