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

[Saif]

Touhid terms China as trustworthy partner of Bangladesh

Foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossin has termed Beijing as a trustworthy and sincere partner of Dhaka while lauding China’s longstanding support and contributions to Bangladeshs development. He made the remark while speaking at the “Chinese Culture Night”hosted by the Chinese embassy

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Touhid terms China as trustworthy partner of Bangladesh
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Nov 23, 2024 21:55
Updated :
Nov 23, 2024 21:55

Foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossin has termed Beijing as a trustworthy and sincere partner of Dhaka while lauding China’s longstanding support and contributions to Bangladeshs development.

He made the remark while speaking at the “Chinese Culture Night”hosted by the Chinese embassy at a city hotel on Friday night here, according to a press release issued by the embassy on Sunday, reports BSS.

Touhid emphasised that cultural exchange is a cornerstone and driving force of the China-Bangladesh relationship and called for deeper cooperation in all fields during this critical period of Bangladesh’s transformation, aiming to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.

China ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen emphasized that regardless of changes in domestic or regional circumstances, the China-Bangladesh relationship has remained steadfast, progressing steadily in the right direction.

This stable partnership has become a pillar of regional peace and prosperity, he added.

The envoy highlighted that cultural exchange is a vital bridge connecting the hearts of the two peoples, with China-Bangladesh friendship deeply rooted in the community and benefiting both nations.

Ambassador Yao stated that China will use the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Bangladesh in 2025, designated as the “Year of People-to-people Exchange,” as an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in culture, education, healthcare, sports, and youth exchanges.

The event was attended by nearly 300 distinguished guests, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Amid the warm and lively atmosphere, guests celebrated the achievements of China-Bangladesh cultural exchanges, shared the joy of cultural resonance, and extended heartfelt wishes for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, jointly writing a new chapter of enduring friendship.​

 

[Saif]

China's global strategies and Bangladesh

China's foreign policy has emerged as a three-pronged multidimensional framework anchored by three ambitious global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisational Initiative. These strategic frameworks aim at reshaping global governance

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China's global strategies and Bangladesh
Serajul I Bhuiyan
Published :
Dec 15, 2024 00:10
Updated :
Dec 15, 2024 00:10

China's foreign policy has emerged as a three-pronged multidimensional framework anchored by three ambitious global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisational Initiative. These strategic frameworks aim at reshaping global governance by strengthening China's political, economic, and cultural influence across the continents. With its strategic location at the crossroads of key maritime and trade routes, Bangladesh is a rising South Asian economy that will play a crucial role in Beijing's global agenda.

Bangladesh's balancing between China and India places it at the heart of a complex geopolitical matrix. The country's growing economy, its expanding trade networks, and the high needs for development are in tune with China's regional ambitions. However, this growing engagement is poised to provoke some pretty strong reactions from India, a regional power uneasy about China's rising presence in its neighbourhood. This article explores some of the strategic interests accompanying China's global overtures, their implications for its developing relations with Bangladesh, and India's concerns against the South Asian geopolitical landscape.

Global Development Initiative (GDI): The GDI was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2021 to achieve sustainable development through economic partnership. It closely aligns with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals but with a peculiar Chinese approach that highlights South-South cooperation. The core pillars of the initiative include poverty reduction, food security, education, healthcare, and green development.

China's strategic objectives behind the GDI are to: Expand Economic Influence. Strengthen economic interdependency through the development of various infrastructure, energy, and logistics projects.

Build Trade Corridors: Acquire trade routes via developing countries like Bangladesh to gain unhindered access to global supply chains.

Counter Western Dominance: Offer a counter to existing Western-dominated structures and programs for economic development, like those proposed by the World Bank and IMF.

Impact on Bangladesh: Bangladesh will benefit economically from greater Chinese investment in its infrastructure, such as ports, railways, and energy projects. The involvement of China might accelerate the industrialisation and sustainable development of Bangladesh. Heavy reliance on Chinese funding could raise questions over debt sustainability, just as it has over other BRI projects.

Strategic Rivalry: Maintaining Balance of Power in the Region

India has traditionally seen China's growing footprint in South Asia, especially in Bangladesh, as a direct challenge to its regional dominance. The BRI, together with the development of ports like Payra and Chittagong, indicates a strategic aim at consolidation in the Bay of Bengal. India views this expansion as part of the "String of Pearls" strategy by China to encircle India through a network of strategically located ports and infrastructure. For example, as Bangladesh builds deeper economic and defence links with China, India can be expected to further bolster its own strategic outreach into the region by strengthening military-to-military relations with neighbours including Myanmar and Sri Lanka. This is fast evolving into an intricate game of geopolitics in the region.

Competing Development Models: India's Economic Response Indeed, Bangladesh's budding relationship with China brings in valuable economic dividends in terms of infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and direct investment. Chinese financing of transformative projects such as the Padma Bridge and Karnaphuli Tunnel has considerably cemented China's economic engagement with Bangladesh. In response, India will further increase its development aid and fast-track the long-impending projects of cross-border railways, energy cooperation, and trade infrastructure. India may also expand its economic corridor projects, including the India-Bangladesh-Nepal Connectivity Initiative, to counterbalance Chinese investments. This competition could accelerate development in Bangladesh, offering the country access to multiple development models while enhancing its negotiating power with both nations.

Reduced Indian Political Influence on Bangladesh: Bangladesh's increasing alignment with China could diminish India's political leverage in Dhaka, particularly if Chinese-backed infrastructure and defence projects deepen strategic cooperation. Historically, India has been the dominant player in Bangladesh's domestic and regional affairs, influencing its trade, water-sharing agreements, and security policies. With China's expanding influence through defence sales, port development, and diplomatic engagement, India risks losing its traditional stronghold. The balancing role of Bangladesh can thus decrease the unilateral influence of India, which may press New Delhi to take up a more conciliatory approach toward sensitive issues, such as the Teesta water-sharing agreement, trade tariffs, and border disputes. A robust relationship with China may position Bangladesh as an independent actor in the political and economic affairs of South Asia, pushing India toward more equitable and pragmatic negotiations.

Global Security Initiative (GSI): The GSI was proposed in 2022 with the purpose of changing the world's security architecture through multilateral cooperation, conflict resolution, and a policy of non-interference. This reflects China's ambition in shaping global security frameworks beyond the traditional US-led alliances such as NATO and the Quad.

China's strategic objectives include:

Expand Geopolitical Influence: Establish its role as a global security provider in the Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and beyond.

Deter Military Alliances: Balance US-led security partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.

Protect Strategic Routes: Secure critical maritime routes, like that of the Bay of Bengal, through regional security arrangements.

Impact on Bangladesh & South Asia: Bangladesh can become a regional security partner through maritime security agreements and military technology cooperation.

China's experience in counterterrorism and surveillance technologies might further solidify Bangladesh's domestic security apparatus. A strategic alignment with China would decrease Bangladesh's reliance on India and its Western security partnerships, thereby complicating its non-aligned foreign policy stance.

India, however, views any Bangladeshi alignment with China's security agenda as a direct threat to its strategic dominance in South Asia. Greater Chinese military cooperation in the Bay of Bengal may result in arms races or military build-ups in the region.

Global Civilisational Initiative (GCI): Launched in 2023, the GCI aims at building cross-cultural understanding, people-to-people exchanges, and a narrative of mutual respect among civilizations. This is China's soft power strategy to counter its alleged authoritarianism and clean its image before the world community.

China's goals are:

Global Leadership in Cultural Diplomacy: Place China as a cultural leader in the promotion of dialogue among civilisations.

Soft Power Expansion: Establish cultural ties through education, language programs, cultural exchanges, and media partnerships.

Narrative Control: Recast global narratives about China's political system and development model as culturally inclusive and globally beneficial.

Impact on Bangladesh: Bangladesh could benefit from scholarships, cultural exchanges, and Confucius Institutes promoting Chinese culture and language. Cultural tourism projects could expand Bangladesh's global appeal, enhancing economic opportunities. Bangladesh must ensure cultural partnerships with China do not overshadow its historic cultural ties with India or the West.

India, which prides itself on its ancient civilization and cultural diplomacy, may intensify its efforts to maintain cultural influence in Bangladesh. The competition for cultural influence could shape how South Asia is perceived globally, impacting educational, historical, and media narratives.

Trilateral Geopolitical Impact: The simultaneous implementation of China's three global strategies in Bangladesh could reshape the region's geopolitical dynamics in several key ways:

Strategic Tug-of-War: India's concerns about losing strategic influence in Bangladesh could intensify, prompting greater investment, diplomatic engagement, and defence partnerships.

Economic Competition: Bangladesh could leverage the competition between China and India to maximize development aid, trade agreements, and infrastructure investments.

Security Dilemmas: Greater Chinese security cooperation in Bangladesh may finally push India toward consolidating regional alliances with the US, Japan, and Australia through the Quad framework.

Cultural Rivalries. The competition in cultural diplomacy may redefine the historical narratives and cultural exchanges in South Asia, affecting regional unity and soft power influence.

Recommendations for Bangladesh: To navigate these complexities, Bangladesh should adopt a balanced foreign policy and maintain strategic neutrality by engaging with both China and India without jeopardising relations with either.

The country also needs to strengthen regional cooperation and promote multilateral dialogues through platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC to mitigate rivalry-driven conflicts.

Bangladesh also needs to expand ties with the US, EU, and ASEAN to reduce overdependence on China and India.

Creating a unique Bangladeshi cultural narrative will also be necessary to further relations with both China and India.

Improving domestic infrastructure, financial resilience, and security capabilities to deal with external influences independently is another necessary task.

Strategic Window: The political situation in Bangladesh has created a narrow window of opportunity for the caretaker government to take relations with China to the next level. The timing is crucial, with India reportedly working to restore the political influence of former authoritarian Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-a move that risks destabilising Bangladesh's fragile political balance. Strengthening relations with China might prove to be a stabilising factor that would provide Bangladesh with a strong counterbalance against possible Indian interference in its internal affairs. The continuous support that China has pledged toward economic development, investment in infrastructure, and non-interference policies corresponds with the strategic objectives of Bangladesh seeking political and economic stability.

History has often seen India behave in a hegemonic manner toward Bangladesh's political processes, leading to strains on diplomatic relations. Deepening relationships with China can decrease dependency upon India and allow Bangladesh to leverage greater economic and geopolitical authority. The BRI projects, trade partnerships, and infrastructure development between China and Bangladesh have already transformed Bangladesh's economy. Such expanded cooperation, on the back of reformist moves by a caretaker government would afford Bangladesh faster progress in national development with a lesser degree of vulnerability to political pressure from India.

Deepening engagement with China during a period of political transition can reorient the power dynamics in South Asia. A strategically aligned Bangladesh-China partnership would leave India with no option but to be more engaging in constructive diplomacy, especially on the resolution of pending bilateral issues related to water-sharing agreements and cross-border trade. As once said by Henry Kissinger, former U.S. Secretary of State, "In crisis, boldness is the safest option." Bangladesh's proactive diplomacy with China could thus pave the way for a more balanced, stable, and prosperous political future in South Asia.

Conclusion: Navigating a New Geopolitical Reality China's GDI, GSI, and GCI are rewriting the global power dynamics, especially in South Asia, where Bangladesh occupies a crucial geopolitical crossroads between two regional giants: China and India. These initiatives offer Bangladesh transformative economic, security, and cultural partnerships but also come with inherent complexities such as strategic dependency, regional rivalry, and cultural contestation. Successfully navigating this landscape will require a nuanced and pragmatic foreign policy that leverages Bangladesh's strategic location while balancing competing interests.

As the former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, "The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty." Bangladesh needs to be optimistic but calculated, looking at China's initiatives as an opportunity, not a threat, for the advancement of its national development, regional security, and cultural identity on the global stage. Such a balancing act might just yield the much-needed infrastructure investments while strengthening its sovereignty in the face of increasing Sino-Indian competition.

More importantly, echoing the phrase of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy that "Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate," Bangladesh has to engage both China and India assertively, extracting maximum economic and strategic value from both relationships. A pragmatic foreign policy that keeps Bangladesh neutral yet strategically aligned with major powers could position the country as a pivotal actor in South Asia's evolving geopolitical landscape. Bangladesh might maintain a flexible foreign policy-interest-driven, of course-in this era of shifting alliances around the world. Bangladesh's capability for doing so many mark the road to sustained growth, stability, and global recognition.

The Caretaker Government, under the farsighted leadership of Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is better placed to rally wider mass support for deeper strategic rapport with China. The approach also would not only counterbalance the political influence of India but would serve as a very strong stabilising force amid Bangladesh's evolving political landscape. Under existing geopolitical dynamics, this would be the best time to do so for Yunus, vindicating again the age-old insight by Winston Churchill: "To each, there comes a moment… a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder to do a very special thing. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour."

Dr Serajul I. Bhuiyan is professor and former chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications at Savannah State University in Georgia, USA.​

 

[Krishna with Flute]

China's global strategies and Bangladesh

China's foreign policy has emerged as a three-pronged multidimensional framework anchored by three ambitious global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisational Initiative. These strategic frameworks aim at reshaping global governance

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China's global strategies and Bangladesh
Serajul I Bhuiyan
Published :
Dec 15, 2024 00:10
Updated :
Dec 15, 2024 00:10

View attachment 11690

China's foreign policy has emerged as a three-pronged multidimensional framework anchored by three ambitious global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisational Initiative. These strategic frameworks aim at reshaping global governance by strengthening China's political, economic, and cultural influence across the continents. With its strategic location at the crossroads of key maritime and trade routes, Bangladesh is a rising South Asian economy that will play a crucial role in Beijing's global agenda.

Bangladesh's balancing between China and India places it at the heart of a complex geopolitical matrix. The country's growing economy, its expanding trade networks, and the high needs for development are in tune with China's regional ambitions. However, this growing engagement is poised to provoke some pretty strong reactions from India, a regional power uneasy about China's rising presence in its neighbourhood. This article explores some of the strategic interests accompanying China's global overtures, their implications for its developing relations with Bangladesh, and India's concerns against the South Asian geopolitical landscape.

Global Development Initiative (GDI): The GDI was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2021 to achieve sustainable development through economic partnership. It closely aligns with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals but with a peculiar Chinese approach that highlights South-South cooperation. The core pillars of the initiative include poverty reduction, food security, education, healthcare, and green development.

China's strategic objectives behind the GDI are to: Expand Economic Influence. Strengthen economic interdependency through the development of various infrastructure, energy, and logistics projects.

Build Trade Corridors: Acquire trade routes via developing countries like Bangladesh to gain unhindered access to global supply chains.

Counter Western Dominance: Offer a counter to existing Western-dominated structures and programs for economic development, like those proposed by the World Bank and IMF.

Impact on Bangladesh: Bangladesh will benefit economically from greater Chinese investment in its infrastructure, such as ports, railways, and energy projects. The involvement of China might accelerate the industrialisation and sustainable development of Bangladesh. Heavy reliance on Chinese funding could raise questions over debt sustainability, just as it has over other BRI projects.

Strategic Rivalry: Maintaining Balance of Power in the Region

India has traditionally seen China's growing footprint in South Asia, especially in Bangladesh, as a direct challenge to its regional dominance. The BRI, together with the development of ports like Payra and Chittagong, indicates a strategic aim at consolidation in the Bay of Bengal. India views this expansion as part of the "String of Pearls" strategy by China to encircle India through a network of strategically located ports and infrastructure. For example, as Bangladesh builds deeper economic and defence links with China, India can be expected to further bolster its own strategic outreach into the region by strengthening military-to-military relations with neighbours including Myanmar and Sri Lanka. This is fast evolving into an intricate game of geopolitics in the region.

Competing Development Models: India's Economic Response Indeed, Bangladesh's budding relationship with China brings in valuable economic dividends in terms of infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and direct investment. Chinese financing of transformative projects such as the Padma Bridge and Karnaphuli Tunnel has considerably cemented China's economic engagement with Bangladesh. In response, India will further increase its development aid and fast-track the long-impending projects of cross-border railways, energy cooperation, and trade infrastructure. India may also expand its economic corridor projects, including the India-Bangladesh-Nepal Connectivity Initiative, to counterbalance Chinese investments. This competition could accelerate development in Bangladesh, offering the country access to multiple development models while enhancing its negotiating power with both nations.

Reduced Indian Political Influence on Bangladesh: Bangladesh's increasing alignment with China could diminish India's political leverage in Dhaka, particularly if Chinese-backed infrastructure and defence projects deepen strategic cooperation. Historically, India has been the dominant player in Bangladesh's domestic and regional affairs, influencing its trade, water-sharing agreements, and security policies. With China's expanding influence through defence sales, port development, and diplomatic engagement, India risks losing its traditional stronghold. The balancing role of Bangladesh can thus decrease the unilateral influence of India, which may press New Delhi to take up a more conciliatory approach toward sensitive issues, such as the Teesta water-sharing agreement, trade tariffs, and border disputes. A robust relationship with China may position Bangladesh as an independent actor in the political and economic affairs of South Asia, pushing India toward more equitable and pragmatic negotiations.

Global Security Initiative (GSI): The GSI was proposed in 2022 with the purpose of changing the world's security architecture through multilateral cooperation, conflict resolution, and a policy of non-interference. This reflects China's ambition in shaping global security frameworks beyond the traditional US-led alliances such as NATO and the Quad.

China's strategic objectives include:

Expand Geopolitical Influence: Establish its role as a global security provider in the Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and beyond.

Deter Military Alliances: Balance US-led security partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.

Protect Strategic Routes: Secure critical maritime routes, like that of the Bay of Bengal, through regional security arrangements.

Impact on Bangladesh & South Asia: Bangladesh can become a regional security partner through maritime security agreements and military technology cooperation.

China's experience in counterterrorism and surveillance technologies might further solidify Bangladesh's domestic security apparatus. A strategic alignment with China would decrease Bangladesh's reliance on India and its Western security partnerships, thereby complicating its non-aligned foreign policy stance.

India, however, views any Bangladeshi alignment with China's security agenda as a direct threat to its strategic dominance in South Asia. Greater Chinese military cooperation in the Bay of Bengal may result in arms races or military build-ups in the region.

Global Civilisational Initiative (GCI): Launched in 2023, the GCI aims at building cross-cultural understanding, people-to-people exchanges, and a narrative of mutual respect among civilizations. This is China's soft power strategy to counter its alleged authoritarianism and clean its image before the world community.

China's goals are:

Global Leadership in Cultural Diplomacy: Place China as a cultural leader in the promotion of dialogue among civilisations.

Soft Power Expansion: Establish cultural ties through education, language programs, cultural exchanges, and media partnerships.

Narrative Control: Recast global narratives about China's political system and development model as culturally inclusive and globally beneficial.

Impact on Bangladesh: Bangladesh could benefit from scholarships, cultural exchanges, and Confucius Institutes promoting Chinese culture and language. Cultural tourism projects could expand Bangladesh's global appeal, enhancing economic opportunities. Bangladesh must ensure cultural partnerships with China do not overshadow its historic cultural ties with India or the West.

India, which prides itself on its ancient civilization and cultural diplomacy, may intensify its efforts to maintain cultural influence in Bangladesh. The competition for cultural influence could shape how South Asia is perceived globally, impacting educational, historical, and media narratives.

Trilateral Geopolitical Impact: The simultaneous implementation of China's three global strategies in Bangladesh could reshape the region's geopolitical dynamics in several key ways:

Strategic Tug-of-War: India's concerns about losing strategic influence in Bangladesh could intensify, prompting greater investment, diplomatic engagement, and defence partnerships.

Economic Competition: Bangladesh could leverage the competition between China and India to maximize development aid, trade agreements, and infrastructure investments.

Security Dilemmas: Greater Chinese security cooperation in Bangladesh may finally push India toward consolidating regional alliances with the US, Japan, and Australia through the Quad framework.

Cultural Rivalries. The competition in cultural diplomacy may redefine the historical narratives and cultural exchanges in South Asia, affecting regional unity and soft power influence.

Recommendations for Bangladesh: To navigate these complexities, Bangladesh should adopt a balanced foreign policy and maintain strategic neutrality by engaging with both China and India without jeopardising relations with either.

The country also needs to strengthen regional cooperation and promote multilateral dialogues through platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC to mitigate rivalry-driven conflicts.

Bangladesh also needs to expand ties with the US, EU, and ASEAN to reduce overdependence on China and India.

Creating a unique Bangladeshi cultural narrative will also be necessary to further relations with both China and India.

Improving domestic infrastructure, financial resilience, and security capabilities to deal with external influences independently is another necessary task.

Strategic Window: The political situation in Bangladesh has created a narrow window of opportunity for the caretaker government to take relations with China to the next level. The timing is crucial, with India reportedly working to restore the political influence of former authoritarian Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-a move that risks destabilising Bangladesh's fragile political balance. Strengthening relations with China might prove to be a stabilising factor that would provide Bangladesh with a strong counterbalance against possible Indian interference in its internal affairs. The continuous support that China has pledged toward economic development, investment in infrastructure, and non-interference policies corresponds with the strategic objectives of Bangladesh seeking political and economic stability.

History has often seen India behave in a hegemonic manner toward Bangladesh's political processes, leading to strains on diplomatic relations. Deepening relationships with China can decrease dependency upon India and allow Bangladesh to leverage greater economic and geopolitical authority. The BRI projects, trade partnerships, and infrastructure development between China and Bangladesh have already transformed Bangladesh's economy. Such expanded cooperation, on the back of reformist moves by a caretaker government would afford Bangladesh faster progress in national development with a lesser degree of vulnerability to political pressure from India.

Deepening engagement with China during a period of political transition can reorient the power dynamics in South Asia. A strategically aligned Bangladesh-China partnership would leave India with no option but to be more engaging in constructive diplomacy, especially on the resolution of pending bilateral issues related to water-sharing agreements and cross-border trade. As once said by Henry Kissinger, former U.S. Secretary of State, "In crisis, boldness is the safest option." Bangladesh's proactive diplomacy with China could thus pave the way for a more balanced, stable, and prosperous political future in South Asia.

Conclusion: Navigating a New Geopolitical Reality China's GDI, GSI, and GCI are rewriting the global power dynamics, especially in South Asia, where Bangladesh occupies a crucial geopolitical crossroads between two regional giants: China and India. These initiatives offer Bangladesh transformative economic, security, and cultural partnerships but also come with inherent complexities such as strategic dependency, regional rivalry, and cultural contestation. Successfully navigating this landscape will require a nuanced and pragmatic foreign policy that leverages Bangladesh's strategic location while balancing competing interests.

As the former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, "The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty." Bangladesh needs to be optimistic but calculated, looking at China's initiatives as an opportunity, not a threat, for the advancement of its national development, regional security, and cultural identity on the global stage. Such a balancing act might just yield the much-needed infrastructure investments while strengthening its sovereignty in the face of increasing Sino-Indian competition.

More importantly, echoing the phrase of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy that "Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate," Bangladesh has to engage both China and India assertively, extracting maximum economic and strategic value from both relationships. A pragmatic foreign policy that keeps Bangladesh neutral yet strategically aligned with major powers could position the country as a pivotal actor in South Asia's evolving geopolitical landscape. Bangladesh might maintain a flexible foreign policy-interest-driven, of course-in this era of shifting alliances around the world. Bangladesh's capability for doing so many mark the road to sustained growth, stability, and global recognition.

The Caretaker Government, under the farsighted leadership of Dr. Muhammad Yunus, is better placed to rally wider mass support for deeper strategic rapport with China. The approach also would not only counterbalance the political influence of India but would serve as a very strong stabilising force amid Bangladesh's evolving political landscape. Under existing geopolitical dynamics, this would be the best time to do so for Yunus, vindicating again the age-old insight by Winston Churchill: "To each, there comes a moment… a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder to do a very special thing. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour."

Dr Serajul I. Bhuiyan is professor and former chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications at Savannah State University in Georgia, USA.​

Since when BD and China became time tested friends? Since the exist of Hasina and arrival of Yunus, new narratives are paddled .

 

[Saif]

Since when BD and China became time tested friends? Since the exist of Hasina and arrival of Yunus, new narratives are paddled .

Bangladesh and China have been time tested friends since the 70s.

 

[Bilal9]

Since when BD and China became time tested friends? Since the exist of Hasina and arrival of Yunus, new narratives are paddled .

Even during Hasina's regime, China was a huge economic partner. You should read up on it.

This article is written from an Indian perspective,

ECONOMIC TIES BETWEEN CHINA AND BANGLADESH

Since 1971, China's position towards Bangladesh has evolved from hostility to one of cautious acceptance, and finally to an acknowledged “strategic partnership” owing to China's policy of extensive economic support and the rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh. The current state of ties...

orcasia.org

Indian industrial investments in Bangladesh are non-existent, that gap is filled by China for the lion's share. Talking about non-local investments. Local conglomerates are the majority of investors in local projects.

 

[Krishna with Flute]

Even during Hasina's regime, China was a huge economic partner. You should read up on it.

This article is written from an Indian perspective,

ECONOMIC TIES BETWEEN CHINA AND BANGLADESH

Since 1971, China's position towards Bangladesh has evolved from hostility to one of cautious acceptance, and finally to an acknowledged “strategic partnership” owing to China's policy of extensive economic support and the rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh. The current state of ties...

orcasia.org

Indian industrial investments in Bangladesh are non-existent, that gap is filled by China for the lion's share. Talking about non-local investments. Local conglomerates are the majority of investors in local projects.

True to some extent.

 

[Saif]

Dhaka has to balance ties with, India, China, US

Dhaka needs to strike a balance in its perusal of relations with India, China, and the US, because Bangladesh has interests to protect and is not a major player in the global arena, Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain said yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Dhaka has to balance ties with, India, China, US
Says Adviser Touhid

Md Touhid Hossain

Dhaka needs to strike a balance in its perusal of relations with India, China, and the US, because Bangladesh has interests to protect and is not a major player in the global arena, Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain said yesterday.

Despite tensions India maintains trade relations with China and the US, he said in his address to a national dialogue organised by the Forum for Bangladesh Studies at the Krishibid Institute Bangladesh in the capital.

This is why Bangladesh needs to maintain good relations with all three countries, he said.

In the past, the interests of a particular group, especially the interests of the group's leader, have been given priority over the interests of the state, he said.

"For political parties, staying in or attaining power becomes paramount. As a result, they often deviate from the fundamental principles. It then becomes the responsibility of the general public to ensure that such deviations do not occur.

"When the interests of the people are prioritised in a democratic society, safeguarding the interests of the state becomes easier."

While discussing the Rohingya crisis, he referred to a recent meeting in Bangkok, saying, "I told them in no uncertain terms that peace and order will not be possible in Myanmar, and consequently in the region, unless the Rohingyas lodged in Bangladesh can return to their homes with security and rights."

Former ambassador M Humayun Kabir said, "The foreign policy of this country has become regime-centric. Whenever a party takes charge, they formulate the policy in the interest of staying in power. This is why we have not been able to establish a consistent foreign policy."

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said, "We need to develop a national security architecture to address our security concerns.

"In addition, it is essential to define the role of our intelligence agencies. We must move away from practices like keeping citizens under constant surveillance or labelling individuals as fundamentalists and victimising them without justification.

"We need to rethink our approach to Myanmar and review our policies. Our army should be equipped and prepared for the 21st-century battlefield."

Obaidul Haque, associate professor of international relations at Dhaka University, said a National Security Council was necessary.

Ganosamhati Andolon leader Zonayed Saki said that Bangladesh's foreign policy over the past 15 years has been a policy focused on protecting the regime. National security was not a priority.

"What is needed is a policy that focuses on safeguarding security. Without building internal political unity, we will not be able to protect national interests and security."

Arif Sohel, member secretary of the Student Against Discrimination, said that staying under the shelter of great powers was Awami League's habit. "Our stance is clear: we will remain independent for as long as we live. We must curb religious extremism and protect our borders. These will become crucial in the days ahead."

Akhter Hossain, member secretary of the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, said that Bangladesh's interests used to be overlooked in favour of India's. "We demand that the agreements made with India in the past be disclosed. We want to see whether these agreements have protected Bangladesh's interests."

Former State Minister for Education ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon, Lt. Col. (retd) Didarul Alam, and Tahsin Riaz, of the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, also spoke at the programme moderated by Shafqat Munir.​

 

[Saif]

Writing chapters of friendship between China and Bangladesh

In the year 2025, the China-Bangladesh relationship will usher in its 50th year of dynamic development.

www.thedailystar.net

Writing chapters of friendship between China and Bangladesh
Bangladesh China relations

Photo: Collected

As the new year begins, everything takes on a new look. In the year 2025, the China-Bangladesh relationship will usher in its 50th year of dynamic development. At the start of the new year, I would like to extend my New Year greetings and best wishes to all the people of Bangladesh. I wish the nation of Bangladesh prosperity and stability, and the people happiness and health.

In 2024, the world witnessed further transformation and instability, marked by protracted and intensified geopolitical conflicts, repeated attempts to decouple and sever supply chains, and the rapid rise of the Global South. It has become all the more clear where the once-in-a-century transformations are heading. In 2024, China acted on the blueprint drawn up at the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and made big strides in comprehensively deepening reform. Marking the 75th anniversary of its founding, China carried forward its great cause of national development and pressed ahead with Chinese modernisation with vigour and determination. In 2024, facing a critical juncture in history, we upheld fundamental principles while breaking new ground in diplomacy, and we responded to a fast-changing landscape with composure and confidence. Our diplomatic efforts have helped foster a favourable external environment for China's high-quality development and provided much-needed stability to a turbulent world.

China has always been an important member of the Global South. We have been committed to promoting unity and revitalisation of the Global South, promoting the cause of global development, and ensuring no country is left behind on the path to modernisation. President Xi Jinping called for more open and inclusive Global South cooperation and announced eight measures in support of Global South cooperation. We have made substantive progress in promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation in light of the urgent needs of many countries. With 155 countries joining the big family of Belt and Road cooperation, this road to happiness is growing ever broader. Given the widening development deficit, President Xi Jinping announced at the G20 Summit China's eight actions to support global development, which include strengthening cooperation with other countries in key areas such as poverty reduction, food security, and scientific and technological innovation.

Over the past year, a remarkable new chapter has been written in head-of-state diplomacy, which has steered the trend of the times toward peace, development, and win-win cooperation. Breakthroughs have been made in building a community with a shared future for mankind, which has shaped the historical trend toward a shared future and greater solidarity in our global village. We have provided new opportunities for the world with Chinese modernisation, which has promoted the development trend of modernisation in countries around the world. China's cooperation with other developing countries has set a fine example, which has reinforced the trend of uniting for strength within the Global South. China has made new progress in pursuing all-round diplomacy, which has built up the trend toward a new type of international relations.

Facing the future, China will continue to bear in mind the larger picture, shoulder responsibilities for the greater good, and advance the right and just cause. We will continue to hold high the banner of peace, development, cooperation, and mutual benefit, and do our best to promote world peace, tranquillity, and the common progress of humanity.

HE Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, points out that China and Bangladesh are friendly neighbours who know each other well. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the two countries have always respected and supported each other, treated each other as equals, and cooperated for win-win results, setting an example of friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries, especially among Global South countries. Honourable Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said that Bangladesh and he himself have forged long-standing friendly ties with China. This year, under the guidance of the top leadership of the two sides, and with the firm support of the two peoples, China-Bangladesh relations have continued to develop, and the profound friendship between the peoples has grown even stronger. This year, the China-Bangladesh relationship withstood the test of drastic political changes in Bangladesh, maintained the momentum of development, and demonstrated great resilience and vitality.

Mutual respect and trust are the solid foundation of the China-Bangladesh relationship. As the Bangladeshi proverb says, "Friendship is not a rope, but a bond of hearts," true friendship is not based on external constraints, but on an inner connection. China has always supported Bangladesh in pursuing an independent foreign policy, following a path of development in line with its national conditions, safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and opposing any external interference. China respects the development path independently chosen by the Bangladeshi people and pursues a policy of friendship and good neighbourliness towards all Bangladeshi people. No matter how the domestic situation in Bangladesh may evolve, the core of the China-Bangladesh relationship, which is based on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, will not change; the foundation of friendship between the two peoples will not change; and the determination of the two governments and people of all sectors in the two countries to support and promote the development of bilateral relations will not change. China sincerely hopes that, under the guidance of the interim government led by Honourable Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the reforms will proceed, the political situation will stabilise, the economy will flourish, and people's livelihoods will continue to improve.

Mutual benefit is the strong driving force for the China-Bangladesh relationship. China is the largest trading partner of Bangladesh. The China-Bangladesh relationship has been elevated to a new historical height of comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Under the new circumstances, jointly advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation is even more opportune, and the room for further developing the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership is even broader. Since the establishment of the interim government, 12 Chinese enterprises have invested a total of $210 million in Bangladesh. China will provide 1 billion yuan of grants to Bangladesh for livelihood projects agreed upon by both sides. The total amount of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Bangladesh declined by 8.8 percent, but the FDI from China experienced a remarkable threefold increase compared to the previous fiscal year. China has pledged further expansion of its opening up to Bangladesh and will continue to provide Bangladesh with zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent of its taxable items before it graduates from the category of least developed countries. China will import fresh mangoes from Bangladesh and vigorously engage in practical cooperation with Bangladesh in the fields of photovoltaics, agriculture, low-carbon development, and so forth. These pragmatic initiatives fully reflect the firm support of the Chinese government for the Bangladesh interim government, and will certainly contribute to the economic and social development of the country and benefit the people of the two countries.

Mutual assistance is the warm bond of the China-Bangladesh relationship. At the request of the interim government, China dispatched a National Emergency Medical Rescue Team to Bangladesh to provide humanitarian and emergency assistance to those injured during the July-August movement. It was the first medical rescue team dispatched by a foreign government since the formation of the interim government. When Bangladesh was struggling against floods and dengue fever, China was the first to lend a helping hand by visiting the affected areas and providing Bangladesh with life-saving equipment and facilities in response to the floods. At present, direct flights between the two capitals have been launched and operated, with as many as 58 flights per week between the two countries, which can accommodate more than 11,000 passengers. The flights substantially facilitated the exchange of personnel between both sides. Currently, there are nearly 15,000 Bangladeshi students studying in China, building a solid bridge for cultural and academic exchanges between the two countries. Teachers at the two Confucius Institutes and one Confucius Classroom in Bangladesh have taught nearly 3,000 students in the past year. This has further strengthened people-to-people exchanges, laying the foundation for the friendly relations between the two countries.

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Bangladesh diplomatic relationship and the China-Bangladesh Year of People-to-People Exchanges. China will work together with Bangladesh and stay committed to the principles of mutual respect, mutual support, equality, and win-win cooperation. China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to support each other on issues concerning core interests such as sovereignty, security, and development, to strengthen cooperation and collaboration under the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, advocate the common values of humanity, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

China will continue to maintain high-level exchanges and friendly cooperation between political parties, strengthen coordination of policies and synergy between development strategies, carry out more exchanges of experience on governance, and optimise cooperation mechanisms at all levels and in all fields. China supports Bangladesh in becoming a BRICS partner country and playing a more active role in regional organisations such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. We will also continue efforts for the political settlement of the Rohingya crisis.

China will continue to work with Bangladesh on the path to modernisation, promote the implementation of the eight major steps to support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and carry out the construction of major landmark projects and "small and beautiful" livelihood programmes. China will also strengthen cooperation with Bangladesh in photovoltaics, water resources, poverty alleviation, green and low-carbon development, and explore specific measures to promote the implementation of the vision of "three zeroes." We will encourage more Chinese companies to invest in manufacturing industries and promote the integrated development of the industrial chain and supply chain between the two countries.

China will continue to enhance friendly cooperation in such fields as culture, education, tourism, sports, health, youth, women, media, and think tanks. We will take a series of practical measures to facilitate cross-border travel and form a new pattern of non-governmental exchanges. By doing so, the friendship between our two peoples will be further strengthened, bringing more tangible benefits to the peoples, and making the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership deeper and more substantive.

Yao Wen is the Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh.

Views expressed in this article are the author's own.​

 

[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.​