China Eyes New Bangladesh-Myanmar Corridor, Raising Strategic Concerns For India

New Delhi: After CPEC, China is now eyeing India's eastern neighbours. Media reports are saying that Beijing is working rapidly on a new economic corridor with Bangladesh and Myanmar. If this project is completed, China will get direct road, rail and sea route to the Bay of Bengal. Defense experts believe that this is not just a matter of business. In future, this may also strengthen China's military and strategic reach. There is tension for India because this will increase China's presence near its eastern border.

What is China's new economic corridor?

According to reports, when Bangladesh Prime Minister Tariq Rahman recently visited China, there was a long discussion on this project. The plan is to connect Kunming city in the Yunnan province of China with major ports of Bangladesh through Myanmar. Especially from Mongla Port. In this, road, rail and sea links will be built together so that goods reach quickly and trade increases.

Why may concerns increase for India?

Defense experts say that modern transport infrastructure is not limited to trade only. In times of peace, road and rail networks are used for commercial activities, but in case of crisis or war, this same infrastructure can play an important role in the rapid movement of troops, military equipment and supplies. If China gets such a link to the Bay of Bengal, its strategic reach could extend much closer to India's eastern border. However, there is no official confirmation yet regarding any possible military use.

Is the BCIM project being revived?

Experts believe that this proposal is largely similar to the old Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Economic Corridor concept. This plan was revealed in the year 1999, the objective of which was to develop road, rail, waterways and air connectivity between the four countries. But due to various political and strategic reasons this project could not go ahead. Now China and Bangladesh are seen making efforts to take this idea forward without India.

Why are relations between China and Bangladesh getting stronger?

Friendship between the two countries has increased a lot in the last few years. Many deals have been signed on infrastructure, ports, technology, defense and investment. Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has also said that the two countries are ready to start '2 2 dialogue' on foreign policy and defence. This will deepen relationships.

What is the importance of Mongla Port and other projects?

According to analysts, Mongla Port is the second largest port of Bangladesh in the Bay of Bengal. China's role in its development has increased in recent years. Apart from this, China's activity has also increased in many areas like Teesta River Project, development of Lalmonirhat Airbase, drone manufacturing and technical cooperation. India is closely watching these projects from a strategic perspective, because they can have an impact on the balance of power in the entire South Asian region.

What can change the strategic equation of South Asia?

If the proposed China-Bangladesh-Myanmar Economic Corridor goes ahead, China's economic and strategic presence in South Asia could be further strengthened. At the same time, India may need to be more cautious on its eastern borders and new equations related to maritime security. However, final decisions are yet to be taken on many aspects of this project and detailed information regarding its form and future is yet to be revealed at the official level.