China President Xi Jinping Targets India During Meeting With Bangladesh PM Tariq Rahman

Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping has told Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman that his country will support Dhaka in "rejecting foreign interference" and safeguarding its sovereignty. This significant statement emerged during Tarique Rahman's visit to China. While no specific country was named regarding interference in Dhaka, the remark clearly alludes to India. Right-wing parties in Bangladesh have consistently accused India of interfering in their internal affairs—allegations that were particularly frequent during Sheikh Hasina's tenure.

Tarique Rahman, who assumed the role of Prime Minister in February, met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. According to information released by China regarding the meeting, Xi stated that China supports Bangladesh in upholding its national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as in rejecting foreign interference. This move is being viewed as an attempt by China to undermine India's influence in Dhaka, a development that could intensify the tug-of-war between India and China over the country.

What did Xi Jinping say about Bangladesh?

During the meeting, Xi Jinping remarked that no matter how much the world changes, China will not waver in its commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Bangladesh. He described China as a trusted friend, a good neighbor, and a reliable partner to Bangladesh. In a joint statement issued following the visit, both sides agreed to establish a strategic dialogue mechanism between their foreign ministers and to explore the possibility of holding '2+2' talks.

Bangladesh reiterated its commitment to the 'One-China Policy,' which recognizes Taiwan as part of China. Meanwhile, China expressed support for Bangladesh's sovereignty and its right to choose an independent path of development suited to its national circumstances. One of the tangible outcomes of the visit was China's pledge to cooperate on the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project in Bangladesh.

Will China Assist Bangladesh with Teesta Project?

A joint statement noted that China and Bangladesh would deepen cooperation in areas such as integrated water resource management, hydrological forecasting, flood prevention, disaster mitigation, river dredging, and the sharing of related technologies. The Chinese side will provide assistance for the Teesta project and help experts from both countries expedite the feasibility study and associated tasks.

Xi has also proposed the creation of an economic corridor linking Bangladesh, Myanmar, and China, aimed at boosting regional connectivity and trade. An official Chinese statement indicated that Beijing is ready to advance the development of the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor to enhance regional connectivity.