In light of escalating tensions with India, Bangladesh's delegation undertakes a goodwill visit to strengthen ties with China.
**Bangladesh's Diplomatic Shift: Embracing China's Outreach Amidst Indian Tensions**
**Bangladesh's Diplomatic Shift: Embracing China's Outreach Amidst Indian Tensions**
Bangladesh's delegation visits China as diplomatic relations with India grow precarious.
A high-profile delegation from Bangladesh, consisting of 22 political leaders, civil society activists, and journalists, has embarked on a ten-day mission to China. This visit, led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) senior official Abdul Moyeen Khan, includes discussions with Chinese government representatives and members of the ruling Communist Party. Analysts suggest that China's initiative comes amidst deteriorating diplomatic relations between Dhaka and New Delhi, particularly regarding the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently living in India.
Khan described the delegation's purpose as fostering goodwill, noting the unique participation of various groups from Bangladesh, a departure from previous, more focused visits. The BNP remains a key political entity in Bangladesh, alongside Hasina's Awami League. The delegation also comprises representatives of the student-led movements that contributed to Hasina's ousting last August. An interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been vocal in requesting India's cooperation for Hasina's extradition to face serious charges, including crimes against humanity.
Despite the allegations, India has not indicated any willingness to extradite Hasina. The country enjoyed robust ties with Bangladesh during Hasina's tenure, perceived as pro-Indian. However, her fall has opened the door for enhanced engagement between Beijing and Dhaka. In recent months, Beijing has reached out to various Bangladeshi factions, even those from Islamist backgrounds.
The current delegation's visit follows a prior meeting between Bangladesh's interim foreign policy advisor and China’s foreign minister, demonstrating China's intent to strengthen its influence in a region where India has traditionally held sway. China is already Bangladesh's most significant trade partner, with trade valued at approximately $24 billion, predominantly consisting of Chinese exports.
On the flip side, India's involvement with Bangladesh's interim leadership has dwindled, leading to rising sentiments in Dhaka criticizing Indian interference, particularly related to Hasina's political asylum. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar recently responded, indicating that the future of their bilateral relationship rests with Bangladesh, labeling complaints from Dhaka as "absolutely ridiculous."
The shifting dynamics suggest that Bangladesh might emulate its South Asian counterparts Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Nepal in navigating the geopolitical tug-of-war between China and India. Chinese analysts urge India to reassess its perspectives on the region, warning that assuming the entire subcontinent lies within its sphere could lead to detrimental outcomes.
