Bangladesh Invites China to Enhance Economic Ties, Citing India’s Landlocked Northeast
During a recent four-day visit to China, Bangladesh’s interim government chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, extended an invitation to Beijing to establish a more substantial economic presence in the region. He emphasized that Bangladesh serves as the “sole guardian of the ocean” for India’s seven northeastern states, which are landlocked and lack direct access to maritime routes.
Bangladesh-China Relations
Yunus highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic position in facilitating regional trade and connectivity. He suggested that Bangladesh could act as an extension of the Chinese economy by providing a base for manufacturing and marketing goods destined for China and global markets.
During his visit, Yunus met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, resulting in the signing of nine bilateral agreements covering economic and technical cooperation, infrastructure development, media, culture, and health sectors.
India’s Northeast Landlocked
Yunus’s remarks about India’s northeastern states being landlocked have sparked discussions among regional analysts. Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of India’s Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, questioned the relevance of India’s internal geography in Bangladesh’s appeal to China.
Economic Cooperation
Bangladesh also expressed interest in Chinese involvement in managing its river systems, particularly the Teesta River, and sought a 50-year master plan from Beijing for comprehensive water resource management. Additionally, Bangladesh welcomed Chinese participation in the modernization of the Mongla Port and the development of the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chattogram, with China committing significant financial support for these projects.
Yunus’s overtures to China reflect Bangladesh’s intent to diversify its economic partnerships and leverage its strategic location to enhance regional connectivity and development.
