🇧🇩 China is a Time Tested Friend and a Strategic Partner of Bangladesh (2 Viewers)

[Saif]

China-Bangladesh Relations in 2023: Laying Solid Foundation for Splendid Future​

（From Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh）​

2023-12-31 23:55
On December 31, 2023, H.E. Mr. Yao Wen, Ambassador of China to Bangladesh, contributed an article titled China-Bangladesh Relations in 2023: Laying Solid Foundation for Splendid Future to the annual publication of Diplomatic Correspondent Association of Bangladesh (DCAB). The full text of the article is as follows:

The international political, economic and security situation has undergone profound changes in 2023. The world has just stepped out of the shadow of the COVID-19 epidemic. All countries are struggling to recover from economic depression. The spillover effects of the Ukraine crisis continue to spread, putting global food and energy security at risk. Certain major countries arbitrarily wield unilateral sanctions, making the situation of the Global South even worse. The conflict between Palestine and Israel makes Gaza a hell on earth, trampling on human conscience and morality day and night. Peace and development, the themes of our times, are facing unprecedented challenges. In this context, China, with an ultimate aim of fostering a new type of international relations and building a community with a shared future for mankind, has actively assumed its responsibilities as a major country, and kept injecting the power of peace, stability and development into the turbulent international situation.

In 2023, China has made significant progress in its major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping celebrated its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, the BRI has changed the development landscape across the world, and brought tangible benefits to the people of related countries. The 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was successfully held in Beijing, China. Over 10 thousand participants from every corner of the world made a resonating call in one voice for unity, cooperation, openness and win-win. The Forum ushered in a new phase of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation towards realizing the grand vision of world modernization leaving no one behind.

China has also vigorously promoted the Global Development Initiative (GDI), which encourages countries to work together to achieve all seventeen goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as schedule. Under the Global Security Initiative (GSI), China successfully mediated the restoration of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and spared no effort in facilitating Bangladesh and Myanmar to repatriate the displaced people from Rakhine State of Myanmar. China advocates and practices the true multilateralism, and firmly supports the United Nations in playing a central role in international affairs. Like always, China acts as a builder of world peace, contributor to global development, and defender of international order.

China and Bangladesh have jointly carried forward our Strategic Partnership of Cooperation this year. Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina held face-to-face talks again after four years, injecting new and strong impetus into the development of China-Bangladesh relations. Throughout the election year of Bangladesh, China has always extended its firm support to Bangladesh in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and opposing external interference. It is our true belief that the upcoming election is an internal affair of Bangladesh, and the future and destiny of Bangladesh should be decided by no one but its own people. China will always stand by the Bangladeshi people in pursuing a better tomorrow. China-Bangladesh relations is based on mutual respect and win-win outcome. It finds its root in the people and truly benefits the people. Thus it is aspired and supported by the people. Any attempt to disrupt or obstruct China-Bangladesh friendship and cooperation would be refused by the two peoples and doomed to failure.

The year of 2023 marks the harvest season of the Belt and Road cooperation between China and Bangladesh. Fourteen mega infrastructure projects have been completed or advanced within the year. The Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina personally inaugurated the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel and several other projects. China's investment stock in Bangladesh has increased to nearly 1.4 billion USD. Approximately seven hundred Chinese companies are operating in Bangladesh. They have created over 5.5 lakh job opportunities for local people. Facts tell the truth that, on the journey of Bangladesh’s modernization, the BRI is the most befitting development cooperation initiative with Vision 2041 and Smart Bangladesh. The Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina spoke highly of the BRI that it has opened a new door for Bangladesh’s development.

In 2023, personnel and cultural exchanges between China and Bangladesh have also resurged. China has introduced a series of measures to facilitate international travel between the two countries. Visits and exchanges have increased rapidly between the government authorities, parliaments, militaries, political parties, think tanks, universities, media, youths, artists, athletes and other sectors. On the eve of the International Children’s Day, Chinese President Xi Jinping replied Alifa Chin, a Bangladeshi girl, with a cordial letter, in which he encouraged Bangladeshi youths to dedicate to China-Bangladesh friendship. The letter aroused enthusiastic responses from both countries, injecting new historical significance and contemporary connotation to the China-Bangladesh relations. When Bangladesh fights with the severest dengue epidemic in history, the Chinese Government and people are also deeply affected by the sufferings of the Bangladeshi people. The Chinese side provided a batch of anti-dengue assistance to Bangladesh and deployed it to local hospitals timely. With the joint efforts of the two countries, Bangladesh is expected to overcome the dengue epidemic soon.

Looking ahead, China stands ready to work with Bangladeshi friends from all walks of life, especially the new government, to firmly seize the historical development opportunities, fully translate our economic complementarity into joint competitiveness, and proactively deepen strategic integration under the banner of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. We encourage cross-board exchanges between the two countries. Specifically, China would prioritize infrastructure development, ICT, new energy and agriculture in the cooperation plan. Together, we would uplift China-Bangladesh relations to a higher level on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic ties.​

 

[Saif]

China-Bangladesh relations: A three way balance between China, India and the US

You are reading chapter 1 of the MERICS Paper on China "Beyond blocs: global views on China and US-China relations". Click here to go to the table of contents. In 2021, China’s President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Bangladesh on the 50th anniversary of its independence that...

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China-Bangladesh relations: A three way balance between China, India and the US​

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In 2021, China’s President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Bangladesh on the 50th anniversary of its independence that encapsulates mutual aspirations for stronger ties in an age of great power competition. Both countries were “at a crucial stage of revitalization and development” when China’s “dream of great national rejuvenation can well connect with the “Sonar Bangla” [Golden Bangladesh] dream,” China’s president said. In 2016, President Xi became the first Chinese president to visit Bangladesh in 30 years. Bilateral relations were not always smooth and warm. China’s position towards Bangladesh has evolved over the 50 years since 1971 from hostility into a reluctant embrace and is now a “strategic partnership.” Current Bangladesh-China relations rest on a mix of pragmatism, strategic ambiguity, and political accommodation. Bangladesh and China have built a deep interdependence which is tilting increasingly in China’s favor.
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Status quo: Evolving as never before​

Bangladesh’s ties with China have come a long way since the country split from Pakistan, China’s ally, in the 1971 liberation war. Cold War realities meant China aligned with Pakistan, its all-weather friend, and opposed Bangladesh’s independence. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), China used its first veto power to deny UN membership to Bangladesh in 1972.1 They eventually established formal bilateral relations in 1975 but prior to that China’s approach consisted primarily of countering Bangladesh to reassure its ally Pakistan.

Sino-Bangladesh relations have improved steadily since then, evolving into a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s foreign policy.2 Convergences in their strategic calculations – for instance, their mutual view of India as a common threat – and economic incentives are the principal drivers of improving relations.

Chinese officials made their first high-level visit in 1978, which set off improvements in bilateral relations. Greater momentum came in 2013, with the launch of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Dhaka formally joined the BRI during President Xi’s visit to Bangladesh in 2016, when relations were upgraded to a strategic partnership.3 BRI membership has brought Bangladesh an influx of Chinese investment totaling USD 38.05 billion, roughly equal to 10 percent of Bangladesh’s gross domestic product, the largest sum ever pledged to Bangladesh by a single country.4 China is now Bangladesh’s top trading partner,5 direct foreign investor, trade importer, and military hardware supplier.

In 2020, China also granted duty-free access to its market for 97 percent of Bangladeshi products.6
Defense cooperation has been the main building block7 in the Sino-Bangladesh relationship: China’s economic footprint is a relatively new and an ever-increasing dimension, but defense cooperation has been the main component of the relationship. Since the early 1980s, the two armed forces have engaged in frequent high level official visits and have held joint training and exercises to strengthen cooperation. China has become Bangladesh’s top source of military hardware. Dhaka, likewise, is China’s second-largest arms export destination, behind only Pakistan.8 In the 2010-19 period, China accounted for 72 percent of Bangladesh’s total arms imports.9
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Exhibit 1
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Geopolitics: Founded on pragmatism and ambiguity​

In Bangladeshi geopolitics, India has long been at the center due to its geographic proximity, cultural links and above all its intervention as an ally against Pakistan during Bangladesh’s liberation war. Meanwhile as a global power, the United States has exercised the greatest economic and political leverage over Bangladesh. Other regional powers, such as China and Japan, had a more peripheral role until China’s rise as an economic and military power cemented its ability and confirmed its willingness to exert influence beyond its borders into South Asia, providing Bangladesh an opportunity for a new partner to the north.

Bangladesh recognized the new opportunity that China represents; realpolitik began to dictate its foreign policy calculations, powered primarily by economic incentives. China’s appeal lay in the contrast with India’s hegemonic posture, coercive tactics, and resource scarcity, especially when garlanded with China’s practice of non-interference in Bangladesh’s domestic affairs. Massive investments in infrastructure and other sectors sealed China’s allure. As Bangladesh-China ties continue to deepen, India worries that its traditional regional partner may follow the same path as Nepal and Sri Lanka which are clearly hedging towards Beijing.

Consequently, Dhaka faces the risk of becoming embroiled in a China-India tug of war for regional influence.10 It has so far avoided this trap by maintaining balanced relations with both, emphasizing political and cultural affinities with India and economic ties with China.11 This balancing act is growing more challenging as competition between Beijing and New Delhi for regional influence intensifies. Dhaka therefore views the United States as a strategic ‘third-way-balancer’ and has proactively reached out to Washington for economic assistance and support in international forums so as to defuse tension and lessen Bangladeshi reliance on India and China.

The United States has exported USD 110 million worth of arms to Bangladesh since 2010, a meagre amount compared to the USD 2.59 billion Bangladesh has spent on Chinese military equipment.12 Faced with the heated Sino-Indian relationship caused by renewed Himalayan border clashes from May 2020, the United States took a proactive approach to courting Bangladesh. It proposed a military modernization plan, starting with Apache helicopters and missiles.13 Deeper security cooperation is of “mutual interest, with full respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence of action” according to Laura Stone, the US State Department’s then deputy assistant secretary for South Asia.

The United States remains Bangladesh’s largest export destination – accounting for 14.5 percent of total exports, primarily garments, which are the country’s main export and foreign currency lifeline.15 Although China has granted duty-free access to 97 percent of Bangladeshi products, its own manufacturing prowess limits the market possibilities for Bangladeshi exports. Germany remains the top export destination for Bangladesh’s garment trade, taking USD 6.20 billion – worth of items in 2021; Germany is Bangladesh’s second largest market overall, accounting for 14.2 percent of total exports.

China is gaining ground in the fierce competition between India and China. In 2015, it displaced India as Bangladesh’s top trading partner, knocking India out of the position it had held for 40 years. Imports from China represented 34 percent of Bangladesh’s total imports in 2019.17 Given China was also the origin of Bangladesh’s highest investment from a single source, and the bilateral strategic partnership, New Delhi naturally felt it was falling behind. In response, India has deployed a wide variety of tools – rather asymmetric but significant - to counter China’s inroads.

Bangladesh has long wanted to build a deep-sea port on the Bay of Bengal, giving the project a high priority on the national agenda. China had pursued the Bangladesh government for decades to construct the Sonadia project.

However, India’s opposition led to the scrapping of the Sonadia project altogether.19 Recognizing geopolitical realities, Bangladesh welcomed Japanese funding to build a deep-sea port in Matarbari.20 Beijing’s purchase of a 25 percent share in Bangladesh’s largest stock market, the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), when it outbid India’s National Stock Exchange (NSE), took their struggle into new arenas. The sphere of China-India competition expanded from hard infrastructure into soft assets.
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Perceptions: China’s economy and neutrality win strong support​

While the Bangladeshi population’s perception of China is overwhelmingly positive, the degree of enthusiasm varies among the political, military, and business elites and ordinary citizens. In 2014, the Pew research survey found 77 percent of Bangladeshis viewed China positively, the highest positive rating for all countries. By contrast, India continues to be seen as a potential threat to Bangladesh’s security by significant sections of the populace and elites.

Overall, 43 percent of Bangladeshis prefer the United States as an ally.23 The lack of national unity and consensus has long been a major stumbling block for Bangladesh’s nation building process. The two major political parties – the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party – rarely agree on anything except closer ties with Beijing.

China owes its popularity to the skillfully created perception that it is politically neutral and non-interfering as it has refrained from public comments on internal Bangladeshi issues.24 As a result, China benefits from general acceptance, which is reflected in political discourse. Bangladeshi leaders are often labelled as “pro-India” or “anti-India” which is not the case for China.

Bangladesh’s military and business community tend to be the strongest advocates of deeper Bangladesh-China relations. Military planners see a convergence with China in strategic calculations, given that India engulfs Bangladesh on three sides and hostile neighbor Myanmar shares the only other land border. Likewise, China sees long-term strategic interest in strengthening ties with India’s neighbors. It therefore provides sophisticated military hardware at comparatively low prices that Bangladesh could not obtain elsewhere. However, Bangladeshis have reservations about China’s ties with Myanmar to weigh against their positive attitude to convergence with China to buffer against India. Nonetheless, military ties with China are long-standing and deep-rooted.

In contrast, ties to China among Bangladesh’s business communities are relatively new but evolving fast. They are seeing profits as Chinese investment, trade and exports ramp up across multiple sectors, from physical to digital infrastructure. They have positive perceptions of China; like anywhere else, these business communities seek to influence the outlook of political, military and intellectual elites.

Broadly-speaking, perceptions of China and the United States seem uniformly positive. As Bangladesh is the world’s fourth largest Muslim-majority country, predominantly positive views of the United States there contrast with the Muslim world’s prevailing perceptions. Among Bangladeshis, 76 percent view the United States favorably, the highest level in the subcontinent.25 However, when it comes to comparisons with India, the perception of China is increasingly positive.

The differing perceptions of these three countries can be seen in responses to the Covid-19 pandemic. China fell short in supplying vaccines to Bangladesh, despite its intense Covid diplomacy, whereas the United States prioritized Bangladesh. The United States donated 38.4 million vaccine doses, while China provided only 5 million.26 Anti-India sentiment rose to its highest level when the Indian firm Serum Institute failed to fully deliver a pre-paid government order for vaccines. Bangladesh then had no option except to purchase vaccines from China.
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Outlook: Future friction is possible over trade, water and refugees​

Bangladesh may face further isolation from the West due to its backsliding from democracy. The trend can be seen in recent US actions: for instance, the sanctioning of individuals by the US Treasury Department for human rights violations – a first for Bangladesh.28 Nor was Bangladesh among the 110 countries invited to President Joseph Biden’s Democracy summit in December 2021.29 These are unfavorable signs for the current regime, which has shown little appetite for pluralistic society. Such moves may motivate the regime to seek further ties with Beijing, as a potential economic lifeline that comes without criticisms of civil liberties failings.

While Bangladesh-China relations have strengthened considerably, there are three major areas of contention that loom large.

First, Bangladesh faces the challenge of hosting millions of Rohingya refugees. Beijing has failed to pressure the Myanmar junta as Dhaka had hoped, prioritizing instead China’s geopolitical and economic interests in Myanmar. In future, Dhaka’s frustration may rise if China maintains its current stance on the Rohingya crisis, with increasing impacts on Bangladesh. The issue could potentially damage China’s friendly image in Bangladesh.

Second, the growing trade imbalance with China is a concern for Bangladesh. Although China grants duty-free access to 97 percent of Bangladeshi products, it is inconceivable that Bangladesh can cut its trade gap with the world’s factory. In 2018, Bangladeshi imports from China amounted to USD 17.75 billion, while Bangladeshi exports to China were worth only USD 985.41 million, resulting in a trade deficit ratio between Dhaka and Beijing of 1:17.3.30
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Third, China’s ambition to build dams along the upper Brahmaputra River poses serious concerns for Bangladesh as a downstream country.31 The Brahmaputra is among Bangladesh’s main water sources for agriculture, forestry, and fisheries; three sectors that together account for 12.5 percent of total GDP.32 If China carries out the plan, it could create a major stumbling block in the warming ties between the two countries.

In conclusion, Bangladesh’s strategic choices continue to be shaped by great powers, as they were when Pakistan and India fought a direct war over Bangladesh’s independence backed by the United States and USSR. The acceleration of US-China strategic competition will influence Bangladesh’s options and trajectory. In South Asia, their rivalry increasingly manifests as a competition between China and India, with Bangladesh as the battleground.

Bangladesh seeks to manage these tensions by triangulating within the US-China-India matrix. It pursues cooperation with China as a tool to promote its economic development, while reaching out to the United States as an extra-regional power, to balance the China-India tensions that stem from its close economic links to China. Bangladesh pursues ‘strategic ambiguity’ in foreign and defense policy by engaging with each country sector-wise. To balance, navigate and position itself, Bangladesh has accelerated its US ties to defuse tensions with the help of a ‘third-way-balancer.’ It aims to protect itself amid intensifying great-power competition in South Asia as relations between Beijing-New Delhi and Beijing-Washington worsen.​

 

[Saif]

https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/foreign-affairs/326325/china-working-to-take-strategic-ties-with

China working to take strategic ties with Bangladesh to a new level​

• China and Bangladesh are time-tested friends, says the Chinese envoy ​
• Two sides committed to further deepening strategic cooperation​

Representational image. Photo: Collected
Tribune Report
Publish : 25 Sep 2023, 11:14 PMUpdate : 25 Sep 2023, 11:14 PM

The Chinese Embassy in Dhaka is committed "to continuing the joint efforts with Bangladeshi friends from all walks of life to promote the strategic partnership between the two countries to a new level."

"I call upon the Chinese enterprises in Bangladesh to proactively undertake social responsibilities, and the Chinese nationals in Bangladesh to further integrate into the local society, so as to contribute more to the promotion of friendship between the two countries," Chinese ambassador in Dhaka Yao Wen said.

He was presenting the keynote speech at the reception marking the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The ambassador said: "China attaches great importance to the betterment of relations with Bangladesh."

"China and Bangladesh are time-tested friends with unwavering mutual trust."

He said: "Bangladesh firmly pursues the one-China principle and appreciates the important role China has played in promoting regional peace and stability.

"The two sides are committed to further deepening strategic cooperation and thereby uplifting China-Bangladesh relations to a higher level in the new era.

"China and Bangladesh are close partners for joint development.”

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the launching of the Belt and Road Initiative by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"Cooperation between China and Bangladesh under the BRI has also entered a harvest season. Bangladesh is the first South Asian country to join the BRI," the ambassador said.

"Over the past seven years, the BRI has taken root and blossomed in the golden Bay of Bengal."

Mega projects like the Padma Multi-function Bridge and its Rail Link, the Dasherkandi Sewage Treatment Plant, the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Rahman Tunnel under the Karnaphuli River and many other mega projects have been completed one after another, making "significant contributions to improving the people's livelihoods and upgrading infrastructure conditions in Bangladesh."

"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina spoke highly of BRI that it has opened a new door of development for Bangladesh," he said.

Looking ahead, the ambassador said, the two countries should seize the new historical opportunities of development, further integrate development strategies, carry out Belt and Road cooperation targeting high-quality development, and exploit our respective economic advantages to complement and supplement each other.

"To specify, we could deepen cooperation in the fields of infrastructure development, information technology, new energy, agriculture, so on and so forth.

"With joint effort, we would definitely realize the Chinese Dream of the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation and Bangladesh's Vision 2041."

He said China and Bangladesh are good brothers supporting each other.

For the time being, there are 50 direct flights between the two countries on a weekly basis, with a capacity of commuting 10,000 people.

In turn, the amount of Chinese enterprises and Chinese people heading to Bangladesh for investment and tourism has also increased by significant scale, the ambassador said.​

 

[Saif]

China Bangladesh Relations and its implications for the USA.

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh-China bilateral relations: Influences of geopolitics and Rohingya crisis

Bangladesh is an important player among South Asian states for China’s political-military realism

www.tbsnews.net

Bangladesh-China bilateral relations: Influences of geopolitics and Rohingya crisis​

Bangladesh is an important player among South Asian states for China’s political-military realism​

Dr Mohammad Tarikul Islam/ Associate Professor, Jahangirnagar University. Sketch: TBS

The consolidation and enhancement of China-Bangladesh friendship and cooperation serve the fundamental interests of both countries, meet common aspirations of their people and are conducive to peace and development in the region and the world.

This is why both nations strategically decided to establish a "Closer Comprehensive Partnership of Cooperation" based on principles of friendship, equality and mutual benefit since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1976, five years after Bangladesh's independence.

Both nations exchange high-level visits and contacts and are intensifying exchanges between government agencies, parliaments, political parties, armed forces, and non-governmental groups.

They promote communication and cooperation at the local government level and enhance bilateral cooperation mechanisms, including diplomatic consultations, joint economic and trade committees and joint agriculture committees.
To bridge the massive trade gap between them, China has not only provided economic aid to Bangladesh but also signed the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) to remove tariff barriers from the commodities imported from Bangladesh.


Under the framework of the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA), China removed tariff barriers on 84 types of commodities imported from Bangladesh, including jute and textiles (chief exports of Bangladesh).

China has offered to develop natural gas resources and nuclear power plants in Bangladesh to meet its growing energy requirements.

The landlocked Yunnan province of China has sought economic cooperation with Bangladesh to help gain access to the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh too has offered to set up a Special Economic Zone for China.

The Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation and a framework agreement on a concessional loan provided by China to Bangladesh are two significant treaties signed between the two nations.
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Influence of 'Look East' policy​

Bangladesh's 'Look East' policy is essentially designed to lessen its dependence on India and open up new avenues of cooperation with China and South-East Asia.

However, in the process of ensuring this, Bangladesh's dependence on China has gradually increased, thereby giving Beijing greater leverage in bilateral ties.

Connectivity is essential to enhance mutual cooperation. In this regard, China and Bangladesh have been negotiating and have decided to build a 900 km highway project to connect Chittagong and Kunming through Myanmar.

This highway would give Bangladesh entry to the Mekong sub-region which already includes China, accelerate trade and facilitate people-to-people contact. This would not only overcome the long sea passage, from the east coast of China through Singapore (for trans-shipment) to Bangladesh, but would also lower transport costs and add to the economy of Yunnan province.

This also fits well with their joint initiative of improving Chittagong port infrastructure for both merchant vessels and the navies of both countries.

The Bangladesh Prime Minister has adopted a diplomatic outlook in line with the guiding principle of the country's Constitution, "Friendship towards all, malice toward none." However, in trying to ensure this, Bangladesh's dependence on China has increased.

Both nations have pledged to cooperate more closely, ensuring long term friendship, equality and mutual benefit to sustain their "time tested all-weather friendship".

Sino-Bangladesh relations are not only a matter of closer, comprehensive cooperation but also a dynamic process that has metamorphosed from an economic partnership into the realm of strategic partnership.
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BCIM and BRI​

Bangladesh–China–India–Myanmar Forum for regional cooperation (BCIM) is a sub-regional entity of Asian nations aiming for greater integration of trade and investment among them.

From the early 1980s, the Bangladesh Army has been equipped with Chinese tanks, its navy has Chinese frigates and missile boats and the Bangladesh Air Force flies Chinese fighter jets.

In 2002, China and Bangladesh signed a "Defence Cooperation Agreement".

Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China plans to engage with the global economy by investing in the physical infrastructure. To rebuild the land network connecting China to Europe via Central Asia ("One Belt") and the maritime route from China to Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Africa ("One Road"), the BRI has been in place.

So far, 136 countries and 30 international organisations have signed 194 cooperation documents with China to take the "Belt and Road" cooperation forward for opening up a new paradigm in collective development efforts. Connectivity through the BCIM economic corridor has the potential to benefit South Asian countries.

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China applied its veto power when the UN Security Council wanted to make a joint statement condemning the mistreatment of the Rohingya population in Myanmar. PHOTO: Reuters
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Rohingya crisis and geopolitical interest of China​

Unsurprisingly, China has geopolitical interests in Myanmar. Myanmar allows China access to the Indian Ocean.

For example, China is funding Kyauk Phyu port, a base of an oil-gas pipeline and the road link from the Bay of Bengal, through Myanmar to the Yunnan province of China, shortening supply routes from the Middle East.

The port has opened up a trading estate for developing a special economic zone in the Rakhine state of Myanmar. China's ambitious BRI is thus profoundly reliant on good relations with Myanmar.

Another factor is that China has been worried by Myanmar's recent foreign policy outlook towards the West. Recent condemnation of Myanmar by the West over its treatment of the Rohingyas has given Beijing a chance to restore close binds with the country.

Beijing has along these lines been a vocal ally of the Myanmar government regionally and globally. China applied its veto power when the United Nations Security Council wanted to take a joint statement condemning the military's actions in Myanmar.

Moreover, the Chinese government described the military takeover and detention of Suu Kyi as a major cabinet reshuffle.
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'India factor' and Bangladesh viewpoint ​

Involving India into the Bangladesh-China bilateral relations is not realistic and rather, Bangladesh should have its own strategy based on foreign policy to deal with India, China, the US and other great powers separately.

Amid India-China tensions in eastern Ladakh in June 2020 as well as growing tensions with Nepal, India has found itself isolated from its neighbours in part because of the increasing Chinese influence in the region.

Having both commercial and political stakes in Bangladesh, New Delhi expected Dhaka's support in the ongoing conflict with China. But to New Delhi's surprise, Dhaka did not pick a side.

Instead, it took a neutral stance and called for the peaceful settlement of contentious issues. Such a neutral stand speaks about the mature leadership Bangladesh has demonstrated and conveys a clear message to shape issues and capitalise on national interests.
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Looking for win-win bilateral relations ​

The geographic area encompassing South Asia and its contiguous maritime zones are of growing strategic importance to China, reflected by its web of partnerships and coalitions with regional states.

The dynamics of these relationships appear on the surface to be based on interdependence but are actually driven by long-term political, economic and strategic interests.

Bangladesh is an important player among South Asian states for China's political-military realism. Such a strategic partnership with Dhaka provides Beijing with an added leverage to check Indian forces. This is evident from the regular political exchanges and enhanced military cooperation between the two countries.

Clearly, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is now trying to capitalise on the geopolitical advantage that Bangladesh enjoys as a country that overlooks the strategically important sea lanes of the Indian Ocean linking China with the Persian Gulf, which have a role in securing energy supplies for Beijing.

Such an approach speaks of her vision to move ahead with an essentially 'win-win' situation by leaving behind China's hostile attitude during Bangladesh's Liberation War in 1971.

Last but not least, as Bangladesh and China have continued to consolidate their bilateral relations over the decade, China must come forward to join hands with the Bangladesh government for a swift repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
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Dr Mohammad Tarikul Islam is an Associate Professor of Government and Politics at Jahangirnagar University. He has been a Visiting Scholar at the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge and SOAS (University of London). ​

 

[Saif]

China proposes deals on economic policy, green-carbon development

Bangladesh and China are in discussion on signing two accords on 'cooperation on economic development policy' and 'promoting green and low- carbon development' during prime minister's anticipated Beijing trip, highly placed sources said. Recently, China forwarded drafts of the memorandum of unde

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China proposes deals on economic policy, green-carbon development​

Meant for likely signing during PM's Beijing trip​

MIR MOSTAFIZUR RAHAMAN
Published :​

Feb 28, 2024 00:12

Updated :​

Feb 28, 2024 00:12

Bangladesh and China are in discussion on signing two accords on 'cooperation on economic development policy' and 'promoting green and low- carbon development' during prime minister's anticipated Beijing trip, highly placed sources said.

Recently, China forwarded drafts of the memorandum of understandings (MoUs) to the foreign ministry in Dhaka through the Bangladesh Embassy in Beijing, a senior official said.

"The drafts were sent by the Department of International Cooperation of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China with the expectation of their signing during an anticipated official visit of the Honorable Prime Minister of Bangladesh to China," he said.

''It reflects the commitment and seriousness of Chinese side to make Honorable Prime Minister's visit a substantive one," reads a letter sent by the Beijing mission.

Asked about the matter, an official, requesting anonymity, told the FE that China had proposed the trip in March but the Bangladesh side informed Beijing that it would be too early.

"The visit may take place anytime before June," he hints about Sheikh Hasina's second foreign trip so far envisaged after her assumption of office for a fourth straight term.

The NDRC, considered planning commission of China, is a ministerial-level important department of the Chinese State Council.

The main functions of NDRC include formulation and implementation of strategies for national economic and social development, medium-and long-term development plans.

In the letter the NDRC has referred to the meeting between M. A. Mannan, the then Planning Minister of Bangladesh, and Cong Liang, Vice Chairman of the NDRC, in July 2023 where the two parties agreed to promote exchange and cooperation in the field of economic-development policy.

According to the draft MoU on cooperation on economic development policy, both sides 'will, under the guidance of the important consensus of the national leaders of the two countries, focus on policy exchange and experience sharing in macro-economy, industrial development, planning and sustainable development etc in conjunction with their respective functions, so as to serve practical cooperation' between them.

The drat deal on green-carbon development states: 'based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit, the parties will carry out green and low-carbon- development cooperation according to different national circumstances, with the goal of promoting green and low-carbon economic and social development and promote sustainable development.

The Parties fully recognize the measures and achievements of respective ecological environment protection. The Parties shall adhere to the harmony of humans and nature, take up our responsibility for the entire human civilization, and promote the coordination and unity of economic development and ecological environment protection.'

About addressing calamities brought by climate change, the draft says, 'The Parties recall the goal of Article 2 of the Paris Agreement to hold global average temperature increases to less than 2°C and to work towards limiting temperature increases to 1.5°C. The Parties reaffirm that the Paris Agreement will be implemented to reflect equality and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

The Parties promise to take ambitious climate actions based on their respective national circumstances. The Parties are willing to carry out policies dialogue and enhance cooperation.

The Chinese Party is willing to share with the Bangladesh Party the theory and practical experiences of Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization, and jointly make positive contributions to global ecological civilization development.'

According to the draft both sides will work to strengthen policy exchange and cooperation in energy conservation and efficiency improvement, adhere to the principle of "energy efficiency first", and focus on the design and implementation of energy-saving policies such as energy-saving and carbon- reduction measures, technology promotion, energy-efficiency standards, and whole-society energy-saving actions.

The draft also states that parties encourage enterprises, social organizations, and research institutions of both countries to carry out exchange and cooperate on energy-saving in key areas such as industry, agriculture, transportation, construction and end-use energy products and equipment.

It also incorporates a clause on 'Dealing with Plastic Pollution' that says the parties recall the United Nations Environment Assembly Resolution 5/14, 'Ending Plastic Pollution: Towards an International Legally Binding Instrument', reaffirming the threat of plastic-waste pollution to the natural environment and humanity.

The MoU also has provisions for cooperation on food loss and waste reduction and environmental protection.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh seeks more Chinese investment in power, energy sector

Bangladesh has expressed a keen interest in expanding China’s involvement in the power and energy sector...

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh seeks more Chinese investment in power, energy sector
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka | Published: 16:44, Mar 04,2024



State minister for power, energy and mineral resources Nasrul Hamid and Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen pose for a photo at the state minister’s office in Dhaka on Monday.—UNB photo

Bangladesh has expressed a keen interest in expanding China’s involvement in the power and energy sector. State minister for power, energy and mineral resources Nasrul Hamid conveyed this strategic vision during a meeting with Yao Wen, the Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh, emphasising the need for a substantial $30 billion investment over the next five years.

The meeting, held at the state minister’s office on Monday, covered a wide array of mutual interests, laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation between the two nations.


‘We are looking forward to China playing a more substantial role. Bangladesh’s power and energy sector needs $30 billion in investment over the next five years,’ stated Hamid.

He welcomed ambassador Yao, highlighting China’s long-standing friendship. ‘Chinese companies are making significant contributions to the expansion of the power and energy sector,’ the state minister said.

He also offered to form a special team to explore the potential fields of investment. ‘A specialised team can be formed to increase investment in the sector,’ he said.


Responding to the warm reception and the call for increased investment, ambassador Yao reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. China’s cooperation with Bangladesh is growing, Yao remarked.

It’s essential for both nations to come together to strengthen the area of cooperation, he added.

The Chinese envoy hoped that Bangladesh would be more prosperous, stronger and a developed nation in the next five years.

They also discussed various issues including Chinese funded projects, setting up lithium battery factory, semi-conductor factory, electric vehicles, battery storage system, smart meter, solar and wind power project, electricity from waste, and gas extraction.​

 

[Saif]

Political trust between Bangladesh, China: Xi Jinping

Breaking News, International News & Multimedia

thedailynewnation.com

Political trust between Bangladesh, China: Xi Jinping​

26 Mar 2024, 1:27 pm

NN Online Report:

Over the past 53 years, Bangladesh has steadfastly upheld its independence, strived to develop its economy and improve people’s livelihood, and made remarkable achievements, laying a solid foundation for realizing the dream of “Sonar Bangla”, Chinese President Xi Jinping said a letter of congratulation to Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, on the occasion of the 53rd anniversary of the Independence of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

Xi Jinping pointed out that China and Bangladesh are traditional friendly neighbors, and the friendship between the two countries has grown from strength to strength. In recent years, our two countries have enjoyed solid and profound political trust, and fruitful practical cooperation in various fields, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples.

Xi Jinping emphasized that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Bangladesh relations and stands ready to work with President Mohammed Shahabuddin to further advance high-quality Belt and Road Cooperation and deepen China-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership of Cooperation.

On the same day, Chinese Premier of the State Council Li Qiang and Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi sent messages of congratulation separately to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud respectively.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh wants to sign FTA with China by 2026

Commerce ministry senior secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh on Thursday said that the government had taken a policy decision for signing free trade agreement with China...

www.newagebd.net

Bangladesh wants to sign FTA with China by 2026
Staff Correspondent | Published: 23:41, Mar 28,2024



Commerce ministry senior secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh and China ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen are present at a press conference at the commerce ministry conference room in the capital Dhaka on Thursday. — PID photo

Commerce ministry senior secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh on Thursday said that the government had taken a policy decision for signing free trade agreement with China and the commerce ministry was working in an aim to conclude the FTA negotiation by 2026.

At a joint press conference on exchange of draft feasibility study reports on the proposed FTA between Bangladesh and China held at the commerce ministry conference room in the capital Dhaka, the commerce secretary said that after graduation of Bangladesh from a least developed country to a developing one in 2026, duty benefits for the country would shrink.

‘We want to conclude the FTA negotiation with China by 2026 to balance post-graduation challenges. If the negotiation is not completed in time, the discussions will go on and we will request China to extend duty-free market access for the interim period until the negotiation ends,’ Tapan Kanti said.

During China president Xi Jinping’s visit to Bangladesh on October 14-15, 2016, a memorandum of understanding was signed on launching the joint feasibility study of China-Bangladesh free trade agreement.

As per the MoU, joint working group was formed to conduct the feasibility study and the first meeting of the group was held on June 20-21, 2018 in Beijing.

The next meeting of the working group would be held in Dhaka soon to finalise the draft feasibility study reports, the commerce secretary said.

He said that Bangladesh’s graduation from LDC to a developing country was a significant achievement and it would create new opportunities in trade and investment but it would also create some new challenges.

China ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said that after the graduation of Bangladesh from LDC in 2026, China would provide support to mitigate the post-graduation challenges.

He said that the FTA between the two countries would effectively promote Bangladesh’s exports to China.

Citing the experience of signing FTA between China and other countries, the ambassador said that China and Mauritius signed an FTA in 2019 and exports of Mauritius to China increased by 15 per cent.

In the same way, after signing an FTA in 2022, exports of Cambodia to China increased by 13 per cent in 2023, he said.

The Chinese ambassador said that the FTA would also extend investment opportunity which would then increase the exports of Bangladesh not only to China but also other markets.

Citing the trade imbalance, Wen said that although the bilateral trade between the two countries was largely in favour of China, Bangladesh imported textile and other machineries from China and produced apparel to export to the US and the EU.

The envoy said that Chinese businesses were interested in making investment in Bangladesh’s ICT, agricultural processed industry and renewable energy.

‘China is determined to support Smart Bangladesh and to enhance its competitiveness,’ the ambassador said. ​

 

[Saif]

FTA with China may cost Bangladesh Tk 15,000cr a year: study

Currently, China is Bangladesh’s single largest trading partner, with the bilateral trade amounting to $24 billion.

www.thedailystar.net

FTA with China may cost Bangladesh Tk 15,000cr a year: study​

It may also boost Chinese investment, study finds



Bangladesh may lose nearly Tk 15,000 crore per year in revenues from import duties if a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) is signed with China, according to a new study.

However, at the same time, Bangladesh stands to gain billions of dollars if Chinese investors come here with investment proposals under the FTA, the study also said.

These are the preliminary findings of a joint feasibility study conducted by Bangladesh and China as they look to begin negotiations for the FTA, said a senior official of the commerce ministry, asking not to be named.

The countries signed a memorandum of understanding in October 2016 to conduct the joint feasibility study. In June 2018, the countries began conducting a preliminary study on the proposed FTA, the senior official also said.

Two different studies were conducted, he added. Bangladesh conducted a study on trade in services while China conducted a study on trade in goods.

Senior Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh and Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen exchanged the documents of the preliminary studies at a press conference held at the commerce ministry office in Dhaka yesterday.

In the preliminary study, there is no exact figure of how much either country may benefit, added the official.

However, the Chinese government will have to facilitate local companies who want to invest in Bangladesh, the official said.

He added that it was just the beginning of negotiations and it may take a long time to complete as the commerce ministry will hold a series of meetings with government officials and private sector stakeholders for their opinions.

Currently, China is Bangladesh's single largest trading partner, with the bilateral trade amounting to $24 billion.

Bangladesh exported goods to China worth $677 million and imported goods worth $22.90 billion from China in fiscal year 2022-23, according to data from the commerce ministry.

At the press conference, Ghosh said the government has engaged major trading partners in negotiations for FTAs, economic partnership agreements, comprehensive economic partnership agreements, and preferential trade agreements.

The aim is to retain duty preferences after Bangladesh makes the United Nations country status graduation from a least developed to a developing country in November 2026.

China currently provides duty benefits for 98 percent of Bangladeshi products.

If negotiations take a long time, Bangladesh will seek the continuation of LDC benefits from China until the signing of the FTA, Ghosh said.

He added that more detailed studies need to be conducted before the FTA can be signed.

Yao Wen said China has been negotiating with Bangladesh mainly to overcome economic challenges and to increase trade between the two countries.

An FTA may address those challenges and exports from Bangladesh to China may eventually increase if facilities can be created.

Currently, China has 22 FTAs with 29 countries, including nations like Mauritius and Cambodia, he added.

Citing an example, the Chinese envoy said exports from Mauritius to China increased by 15 percent and exports from Cambodia to China rose by 30 percent after the signing of the FTAs.

This indicates mutual trade benefits after the signing of trade deals, he said, adding that Bangladesh could export more jute and jute goods, leather and leather goods, and aquatic products to China.

Among agricultural products and those of agro-processing, mangoes, jackfruits, and juice products could also be good items for export from Bangladesh to China.

On the other hand, Chinese investment could bolster the IT and agricultural sectors and can make Bangladesh a manufacturing hub in South Asia if the FTA is signed, the ambassador also said.

Currently, China is the second largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) for Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

China won't interfere in Bangladesh's internal affairs: envoy

China will not interfere in the internal affairs of Bangladesh, said Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today

www.thedailystar.net

China won't interfere in Bangladesh's internal affairs: envoy


Photo: Collected

China will not interfere in the internal affairs of Bangladesh, said Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today.

When asked for comments about the next election, he said, "We want stability in Bangladesh and will continue our cooperation. But it is up to Bangladeshi people how they want to see the elections and democracy."

The ambassador said this at an event jointly organised by Diplomatic Correspondents Association Bangladesh and Chinese embassy at a city hotel today.
Wen said China certainly wants Bangladeshi people and parties to settle their differences so that there is a right environment for election.

Asked about dialogue between the political parties in Bangladesh, he said it was not for a foreign ambassador to respond to that question.​

 

[Saif]

Beijing won’t meddle in Bangladesh elections

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has said China will not intervene in Bangladesh’s elections, saying that it is an internal issue of Bangladesh.

www.thedailystar.net

Beijing won't meddle in Bangladesh elections
Says Chinese envoy


Photo: TV grab

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has said China will not intervene in Bangladesh's elections, saying that it is an internal issue of Bangladesh.

"Our policy always remains the same. China never intervenes in other country's internal issues. I can say the election is the internal affairs of Bangladesh. It has to be decided by Bangladesh people. So, that is our position," he said.

The Chinese envoy made the comments while talking to journalists after a meeting with Planning Minister Abdul Mannan at the Planning Commission yesterday.
"We discussed long-term cooperation. We believe our cooperation is for long time for the benefits of Bangladesh people," he said.

Mannan said China has made significant development over the years. They have implemented 28th five-year plans and Bangladesh is implementing only 8th five-year plan.
"The Chinese envoy said we both can share our experiences and planning for development," he said.

China has vast experience and expertise in infrastructure development and is also working in Bangladesh. Thus they are ready to share their experiences with Bangladesh, he said.

Mannan said he expects China to support Bangladesh in the post-LDC period after 2026 by providing duty-free facilities to Bangladeshi products.

China is also interested in investing in solar power and electric vehicles in Bangladesh, he said.

After construction of the Padma Bridge, there are more scopes for investment and development in the country's southwestern region.

"We assured the Chinese envoy that we consider China as a very important friend. We have got Chinese support in the past and are getting it now. We hope to have more support in the future too," Mannan said.​

 

[Old School]

China says will back Bangladesh against 'external interference'

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday said Beijing would support Bangladesh in "opposing external interference" and would deepen economic cooperation including through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China's support to Bangladesh comes against the backdrop of Dhaka's recent differences with Washington, which issued a public call for "free and transparent" elections that are scheduled for later this year.
"China supports Bangladesh in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and in opposing external interference, so that the country can maintain domestic unity and stability, and achieve development and revitalisation," he was quoted as saying by State media, adding that Beijing was "willing to continue to work with Bangladesh in firmly supporting each other in issues involving their respective core interests."
The U.S. has also sanctioned senior officials of the Rapid Action Battalion, a tool of Prime Minister Hasina's in her crackdown against terrorism. In April this year, Ms. Hasina slammed the U.S. saying that "it has the power to topple governments in any country and the Muslim countries in particular are experiencing a tough time."
China says will back Bangladesh against 'external interference' - The Hindu

 

[Saif]

https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/305841/hasan-china-does-not-interfere-in-bangladesh

Hasan: China does not interfere in Bangladesh politics

China has been involved in many mega projects of Bangladesh, says Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud

BSS
Publish : 28 Feb 2023, 05:14 PMUpdate : 28 Feb 2023, 07:01 PM

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Tuesday said China is a development partner of Bangladesh and it wants to be a partner in future too for materializing the dream of a developed nation by 2041 under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"China is a development partner of Bangladesh. And they want to be a development partner in future also to materialize the dream of a developed nation by 2041 under the dynamic leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. They didn't poke nose in the politics of Bangladesh and don't want to do it in future too," he said.

The minister said this to reporters after a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen at his office at the Secretariat in the capital.

Hasan said the ambassador came here for a courtesy call and discussions were held over the role of the Chinese government in 'development processes', development ideas and other issues.

"You (journalists) all know that China was involved in many of the country's mega projects like Bangabandhu Tunnel, different bridges and other projects. They are constructing a pipeline so that oil can come directly from offshore to Patenga Eastern Refinery in Chittagong. They are also working in EPZ," said Hasan, also Awami League joint general secretary.

Besides, he said, there are 'Six TV' projects for setting up television centers in divisional cities. "It is supposed to be financed by the Chinese government in 'concessional loan'. We are moving ahead slowly in this regard as the world is going through an economic recession. Discussions were held on this issue too," he added.

Yao Wen said a lively discussion was held with the information minister. China has been supporting the country's (Bangladesh) economic, infrastructural and social development as a partner, he added.

"We are happy to play a pivotal role in these areas. We never poke nose in the politics of the country and also don't want to do it in future," Wen added.​

 

[Old School]

Bangladesh elections mark a pro-China tipping point in South Asia

Beijing will celebrate a return of the Awami League the most. But Dhaka might struggle to balance India-China ties.

The Chinese strategic calculus

The Chinese have identified opportunities in retaining the AL government. Since 2010, China's influence has been growing in the decision-making architecture of both Bangladesh and the AL at various levels. Beijing has strong strategic compulsions to turn Bangladesh into a state heavily dependent on it, like Myanmar and Cambodia.

Doing so will ensure easier Chinese access to Indian Ocean sea lanes, bypassing the Malacca Strait via the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) connecting Yunnan province to the seaport city of Kyaukpyu in Myanmar's Rakhine state. Geographically, the Ganga-Padma-Brahmaputra delta hosts the shortest land route to access the sea lanes from mainland China.

That was the British calculation when they set up Calcutta (now known as Kolkata), which was then part of undivided Bengal, as their transshipment point to support the East India Company's opium and tea trade with China. As things stand, AL in power will ensure a predictable, stable and favourable political climate to protect and promote China's large infrastructure investments in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh elections mark a pro-China tipping point in South Asia | Politics | Al Jazeera

 

[Old School]

Ambassador Yao Wen Calls on Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina​

China will firmly support Bangladesh in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and in opposing external interference. China will also support Bangladesh in maintaining unity and stability, and in playing a more active role in international and regional affairs. China is committed to assisting Bangladesh in realizing the "Vision 2041" and the dream of "Sonar Bangla" at an early date.
Ambassador Yao Wen Calls on Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (china-embassy.gov.cn)

 

[Saif]

Beijing doesn’t want foreign intervention in Bangladesh polls: Chinese ambassador

China's Ambassador to Bangladesh emphasizes no foreign interventions in upcoming national election | Chinese Embassy in Dhaka

en.prothomalo.com

Beijing doesn't want foreign intervention in Bangladesh polls: Chinese ambassador
Diplomatic Correspondent​

Dhaka

Published: 09 Nov 2023, 16: 34



Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen addressing the seminar titled 'BRI@10: Ushering in Next Golden Decade'Prothom Alo

Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said that China expects an election as per the constitution and laws of the country. China doesn't want any foreign intervention in the upcoming national election in Bangladesh. China itself doesn't interfere in the internal affairs of any country either.

The Chinese ambassador made these remarks while speaking to newspersons in a seminar at a hotel in the capital Thursday.

The Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) organised the seminar titled "BRI@10: Ushering in Next Golden Decade" in association with the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka.

Ambassador Yao Wen said, "Election is completely an internal issue of Bangladesh. Any decision regarding this shall be taken by the Bangladeshis. China expects that all the stakeholders will maintain the political and social stability in Bangladesh together. Bangladesh knows the kind of election required."

The Chinese ambassador also stressed on maintaining stability in the post-election times considering the huge Chinese investments in Bangladesh.

In response to a question regarding dialogues among the political parties, Yao Wen said, "The political parties can say better in this regard. China wants social stability in Bangladesh."

Speaking regarding Rohingya repatriation Yao Wen said China, Bangladesh and Myanmar are trying to start the repatriation. The Rohigyas are guests in this country. Besides, support from the international community is also needed in this regard. China is observing that many of the countries do not want Rohingya repatriation.

Addressing the seminar, Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) president Ke Changliang said, "China is implementing several mega projects in Bangladesh. China is going to implement more projects in the coming days. China will stand by Bangladesh in its journey towards 'smart Bangladesh'.

DCAB president Rezaul Karim Lotus and general secretary Imrul Kayes also addressed the seminar.​

 

[Old School]

Submarine Diplomacy: A Snapshot of China's Influence along the Bay of Bengal (csis.org)

 

[Saif]

China never interferes in other countries’ polls: Envoy

Apart from the election-related issues, the discussion involved the issue of strengthening the bilateral trade and investment

en.prothomalo.com

China never interferes in other countries' polls: Envoy
Staff Correspondent​

Dhaka

Published: 16 Aug 2023, 20: 16

Chinese ambassador in Dhaka, Yao Wen, meets planning minister MA Mannan in Dhaka on 16 August, 2023.Collected

Chinese ambassador in Dhaka, Yao Wen, has ruled out his country's interference in the election of Bangladesh, saying that China never interferes in other countries' internal issues.

He made the statement while talking to reporters after meeting planning minister MA Mannan at the latter's office in the capital on Wednesday.

Asked about the upcoming election, the Chinese envoy said, "China never interferes in other countries' internal affairs. The election is a domestic concern for Bangladesh."

Apart from the election-related issues, the discussion involved the issue of strengthening the bilateral trade and investment, said the planning minister.

Responding to the reporters' queries, minister MA Mannan said, "It is the policy of China that it will not poke its nose into other countries' internal issues. They reiterated their stance today, and we have assured them that we consider China a very important neighbour. We had friendship with China in the past, it remains in the present, and will continue in the future."

Ambassador Yao Wen conveyed his country's interest in contributing to infrastructural development in the western region of Bangladesh.

He pledged China's commitment to providing comprehensive assistance for enhancing bilateral trade and investment relations.

Their discussions encompassed ways for long-term cooperation between the two countries. Specifically, the Chinese envoy revealed his country's interest in funding the infrastructural development in the western region as well as in providing necessary assistance after the graduation of Bangladesh from the group of least developed countries (LDC).

Planning minister MA Mannan also said China is interested to make more investment in Bangladesh, specially to tap into the potentials presented by the western region thanks to the Padma Bridge.

China is working to scale up the capacity of Mongla port, and is now seeking to invest in the solar power and electric vehicle assembly industries.​

 

[Vikings]

So now I have come to a conclusion, and that is China will not interfere in any internal problem between political parties in Bangladesh, and will not let outsiders interfere because China belives in our sovereignty ( tested friend no doubt!) !

Hence doesn't matter how hard USA And India or others try to kick out queen Hasina they will be failed to do so! Case closed!

That's why it looks Hasina is safe till 2041, because nobody can go against Chinese will ; not even USA , let alone puny India!

 

[Saif]

‘বাà¦à¦²à¦¾à¦¦à§à¦¶à§à¦° নিরà§à¦¬à¦¾à¦à¦¨à§ হসà§à¦¤à¦à§à¦·à§à¦ª ন৒, à¦à¦¾à¦°à¦¤à§à¦° à¦à§à¦·à¦£à¦¾à¦° পরঠসাফাঠà¦à¦¿à¦¨à§à¦°

.

www.sangbadpratidin.in

বাংলাদেশের নির্বাচনে হস্তক্ষেপ নয়', ভারতের ঘোষণার পরই সাফাই চিনের
বাংলাদেশের উপর প্রভাব বিস্তারের মরিয়া চেষ্টা করছে বেজিং।
Published by: Monishankar Choudhury



সুকুমার সরকার, ঢাকা: ভারত ও বাংলাদেশের বন্ধুত্বপূর্ণ সম্পর্ক নিয়ে বরাবরই ক্ষুব্ধ চিন। শেখ হাসিনা সরকারকে পাশে পেতে তথা বাংলাদেশের বৃহৎ বাজার ধরতে এখনও ব্যর্থ দেশটি। পাকিস্তানের পর বাংলাদেশের উপর প্রভাব বিস্তারের মরিয়া চেষ্টা করছে বেজিং। এই প্রেক্ষাপটে ভারতের ঘোষণার পরই চিন জানিয়েছে, বাংলাদেশের নির্বাচনের বিষয়ে তারা কোনও হস্তক্ষেপ করবে না।

বরাবরই শেখ হাসিনার আওয়ামি লিগ সরকার চিনের না পসন্দ। খালেদা জিয়ার বিএনপি দলের পাশেই থেকেছে বেজিং। যে কোনও মূল্যে ঢাকাকে কবজা করে ভারতকে বেকায়দায় ফেলার ছক কষছে কমিউনিস্ট দেশটি। সম্প্রতি বাংলাদেশের নির্বাচন ঘিরে মার্কিন যুক্তরাষ্ট্র, ইউরোপীয় ইউনিয়ন-সহ বিদেশি দেশগুলি সরব হয়েছে। ফলে চাপের মুখে পড়তে হয়েছে ঢাকাকে। তবে বন্ধুর পাশে দাঁড়ানোর বার্তা দিয়ে ভারত সাফ জানিয়ে দিয়েছে, এটা বাংলাদেশের অভ্যন্তরীণ বিষয়। নয়াদিল্লির এই ঘোষণার পরেই বুধবার চিন জানিয়েছে, বাংলাদেশের নির্বাচন ইস্যুতে তারা কোনও হস্তক্ষেপ করবে না।

এই বিষয়ে বাংলাদেশে নিযুক্ত চিনের রাষ্ট্রদূত ইয়াও ওয়েন বলেছেন, "চিন কোনও দেশের অভ্যন্তরীণ বিষয়ে হস্তক্ষেপ করে না। এটা বাংলাদেশের অভ্যন্তরীণ বিষয়। তারাই ঠিক করবে কীভাবে নির্বাচন হবে।" বুধবার রাজধানী ঢাকার শের-ই-বাংলা নগরে পরিকল্পনামন্ত্রী এম এ মান্নানের দপ্তরে তার সঙ্গে সাক্ষাৎ করেন চিনা রাষ্ট্রদূত। বৈঠক শেষে সাংবাদিকদের প্রশ্নের জবাবে ইয়াও ওয়েন এসব কথা বলেন।

প্রসঙ্গত, সেই ১৯৭১ সালে বাংলাদেশের মুক্তিযুদ্ধের সূচনালগ্ন থেকে বিশ্ব দুভাগ হয়ে পড়েছিল। ২৫ মার্চ রাতে বঙ্গবন্ধু শেখ মুজিবুর রহমান আনুষ্ঠানিকভাবে স্বাধীনতা ঘোষণার সঙ্গে সঙ্গে ভারত পাশে দাঁড়ায়। এক কোটি বাংলাদেশিকে আশ্রয়-খাদ্য-বস্ত্র দিয়ে সহায়তা দেয়। মুক্তিযোদ্ধাদের প্রশিক্ষণ ও অস্ত্র দিয়ে সহায়তা করে। এরপর ভারতের সঙ্গে প্রতিরক্ষা চুক্তি করে এগিয়ে আসে রাশিয়া। পক্ষান্তরে গোলাবারুদ নিয়ে পাকিস্তান সামরিক জুন্টার সঙ্গে হাত মেলায় চিন, আমেরিকা-সহ মধ্যপ্রাচ্যের কয়েকটি মুসলিম দেশ।​

 

[Old School]

So now I have come to a conclusion, and that is China will not interfere in any internal problem between political parties in Bangladesh, and will not let outsiders interfere because China belives in our sovereignty ( tested friend no doubt!) !

Hence doesn't matter how hard USA And India or others try to kick out queen Hasina they will be failed to do so! Case closed!

That's why it looks Hasina is safe till 2041, because nobody can go against Chinese will ; not even USA , let alone puny India!

China doesn't consider India to be its competitor in Bangladesh. Instead, it is the USA that China is targeting here.
How China used 'unprecedented BRI spending' to gain influence in Bangladesh at America's expense
How China used 'unprecedented BRI spending' to gain influence in Bangladesh at America's expense - Times of India (indiatimes.com)

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh elections and China-India rivalry

While the political landscape in Bangladesh differs from that of its two South Asian neighbours, the India-China contest remains a crucial factor, notes the writer.

asianews.network

Bangladesh elections and China-India rivalry
While the political landscape in Bangladesh differs from that of its two South Asian neighbours, the India-China contest remains a crucial factor, notes the writer.

Shamsuddoza Sajen
Shamsuddoza Sajen
The Daily Star

Representational image from The Daily Star

October 18, 2023

DHAKA – The Daily Star proudly introduces a fresh addition to our editorial repertoire: Geopolitical Insights. As we navigate the labyrinth of global power dynamics, we hope this weekly page will provide interesting perspectives to help our readers understand the global challenges better. This article published in the first issue focuses on exploring the global power play in Bangladesh's elections. – Mahfuz Anam, Editor & Publisher

The recent presidential election in the Maldives reflected a theatre for India-China competition, with the president-elect, Mohamed Muiz, making "India out" a central theme in his campaign. We also witnessed the two major powers jockeying for influence in the Nepalese election in 2022. While the political landscape in Bangladesh differs from that of its two South Asian neighbours, the India-China contest remains a crucial factor. Over the course of the past 15 years, both countries have deepened their stakes in Bangladesh, which is clearly evident in the growing geopolitical tension surrounding the upcoming election.

China is now Bangladesh's largest trade partner, with bilateral trade currently valued at $25 billion. Since joining China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2016, China has committed over $38 billion in investments to Bangladesh. The country is second among all sources of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Bangladesh.

Furthermore, during the current regime's tenure, China-Bangladesh defence cooperation has reached unprecedented levels. China has maintained its position as the chief supplier of light weapons to Bangladesh since the 1970s, with over 70 percent of Bangladesh's weapons procurement between 2015 and 2022 originating from China, according to SIPRI. Notably, China has been instrumental in the construction of Bangladesh's first submarine base, the BNS Sheikh Hasina, with a total investment of $1.2 billion, located in Pekua within Cox's Bazaar.

China's approach to Bangladesh during the ruling Awami League's regime can be summarised as bolstering economic ties while refraining from criticising democratic backsliding in the country. China was the first country to welcome the AL government after the one-sided 2014 elections, and it didn't hesitate to congratulate them on their big win in the equally controversial 2018 elections.

Furthermore, unlike economic aid from the US and Europe, Chinese investments in Bangladesh's infrastructure come without conditions related to human rights, good governance, or democracy. As a result, this has allowed the AL government to lessen its dependence on Western donors.

Regarding the forthcoming election, China has consistently adhered to a stance that aligns with its overarching strategy, as aptly articulated by Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, who stated, "Our policy always remains the same. China never intervenes in other country's internal issues. I can say the election is the internal affairs of Bangladesh. It has to be decided by the Bangladesh people."

China also opposes any external pressure exerted by the United States concerning the election. This stance is endorsed at the highest level of Chinese leadership. On August 23, 2023, during a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on the sidelines of the BRICS summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated, according to a readout from China's foreign ministry, that China supports Bangladesh in "opposing external interference" and that Beijing will collaborate with Dhaka to mutually support their core interests.

In the upcoming election, if the ruling party emerges victorious, Chinese influence may strengthen even further. Conversely, if the AL loses, and the opposition BNP comes to power, there is relatively minimal risk for China to lose its stake, given the historically favourable relations between BNP and China.

Now, let's delve deeper into India's interests in Bangladesh's upcoming election. As its largest neighbour, India undeniably holds a substantial stake in the electoral proceedings. The increasing asymmetrical power dynamics between these two nations have brought this influence into sharper focus.

In his book titled "1971-2021: Bangladesh-Bharat Shomporker Ponchash Bochor" (1971-2021: 50 years of Bangladesh-India relations), former Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Touhid Hossain has shed light on the nature of the deepening political reliance on India. He articulates, "It is widely believed that no one can ascend to the throne of Bangladesh without India's approval. Statements supporting this notion have emanated from senior political figures on occasion. Many believe that India's consent is a prerequisite for appointments to key positions within Bangladesh. India's direct involvement in legitimising the 2014 election is well-documented. It was so apparent that even the leaders of the political party (the BNP), whose political foundation is rooted in anti-Indianism, had to reach out to India in an attempt to gain favour ahead of the 2018 election, although their endeavours ultimately yielded no success."

India's growing influence has fostered stronger bilateral ties with the AL-led Bangladesh government, characterised by terms like "very special relationship," "golden chapter," and "model for the entire region." The AL government has addressed India's security concerns, particularly access to northeastern India, through connectivity projects and action against anti-India insurgent groups. In return, India has steadfastly supported the AL government, overlooking democratic setbacks in Bangladesh. As regards the upcoming election, a significant portion of the Indian media and think tanks continue to advocate support for the current regime.

Nevertheless, some experts believe that India has adopted a different stance towards the 2024 elections.

Indicating this changed position, Indian columnist Arkoprabho Hazra wrote in The Diplomat, "India is taking a much more inclusive approach toward the 2024 Bangladesh national elections, rather than putting all its bets on the Awami League as seen in the past."

He emphasised that India has expressed interest in ensuring violence-free and democratic national elections in Bangladesh, aligning with the US stance. Recent discussions between Indian and US security establishments suggest, according to Hazra, a potential collaborative effort on election issues. This marks a departure from the 2018 elections when India and the US held divergent views. Nevertheless, Prime Minister Modi's swift congratulations to Prime Minister Hasina for her victory helped alleviate international criticism of the election's conduct.

Yet it is worth noting that India has refrained from publicly responding to the growing pressure exerted by the United States on Bangladesh, including visa measures, aimed at ensuring a free, fair, and participatory election.

Professor Ali Riaz offers three possible explanations for India's deliberate silence: "Firstly, India may be comfortable with the existing political status quo, as demonstrated by its tacit support for Prime Minister Hasina amid US concerns about democratic erosion. Secondly, India might not oppose US pressure on Bangladesh, recognising that it could make Hasina more dependent on India as a mediator between her government and the United States. Lastly, India seems to acknowledge its diminishing role in Bangladeshi politics amid the US-China geopolitical rivalry, making it a secondary external actor in the region."

Regardless of the reasons behind India's muted response, it's evident that the US has shifted its perspective away from viewing the Bangladesh issue solely through the Indian lens. Instead, its emphasis on promoting democracy in Bangladesh, primarily driven by the aim to counteract China's growing influence in the country, will significantly influence India's stance on the 2024 elections in Bangladesh.

India finds itself in a complex and delicate position. There is unease over Bangladesh's growing reliance on China for economic aid and infrastructure development, at times straining the India-Bangladesh relationship. Additionally, there is apprehension that excessive pressure from the US on election-related matters could lead Bangladesh closer to China.

However, Michael Kugelman, director of the Wilson Centre's South Asia Institute, suggested in an interview with Prothom Alo that the US believes India, by leveraging its influence over Bangladesh, can steer it away from such an alignment. Furthermore, the current regime in Bangladesh expects India to advocate for Sheikh Hasina's government with the Biden administration.

India's response to these competing interests will be a pivotal factor in the upcoming elections, the outcome of which carries significant implications not only for Bangladesh but also for the Bay of Bengal region, a critical component of the global geopolitical hotspot, the Indo-Pacific.​

 

[Vikings]

China doesn't consider India to be its competitor in Bangladesh. Instead , it is the USA that China is targeting here

@Old School bhai, I know that! Still I added India in my messages for my personal flavour! Because a huge numbers of my compatriots ( both online and offline) mistakenly think that India is too strong to control our fate!

Although I deeply dislike Indian hegemonic attitude towards Bangladesh, yet I know that they are nothing but barking dogs!

And you know barking dogs seldom bite!

How China used 'unprecedented BRI spending' to gain influence in Bangladesh at America's expense

 

[Old School]

@Old School bhai, I know that! Still I added India in my messages for my personal flavour! Because a huge numbers of my compatriots ( both online and offline) mistakenly think that India is too strong to control our fate!

Although I deeply dislike Indian hegemonic attitude towards Bangladesh, yet I know that they are nothing but barking dogs!

And you know barking dogs seldom bite!

Rightly said DADDA !! This is the way to go !