Bangladesh, China Discuss Teesta Plan
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has discussed the implementation of the Teesta plan with Chinese Water Resources Minister Li Guoying in Beijing, as Dhaka seeks technical support from China for river management, flood control and water development projects.
Bangladesh China Teesta Plan Talks
Rahman and Li held talks at the National Diaoyutai guest house in Beijing, where both sides agreed to expand cooperation in the management of Bangladesh’s rivers, including the Teesta.
The Bangladesh Prime Minister sought Chinese support for water resources management, with particular focus on flood control, river training, irrigation and long-term planning for vulnerable river basins.
Teesta Project Implementation On Agenda
The Teesta plan has remained a politically sensitive issue for Bangladesh because of recurring floods, dry-season water shortages and long-pending water-sharing concerns with India.
China’s involvement in the project is being watched closely in the region, as the Teesta river originates in India and flows into Bangladesh. Dhaka has been exploring support for river restoration and management as part of its wider push to address water security challenges.
Bangladesh Seeks River Management Support
The meeting took place during Rahman’s China visit, which also includes discussions on investment, infrastructure and wider bilateral cooperation.
Bangladesh wants technical expertise and financial support for projects linked to flood forecasting, embankments, irrigation, river dredging and climate resilience. Any movement on the Teesta plan is likely to remain significant for South Asian water diplomacy, given the river’s importance to both Bangladesh and India.
