The foreign policy of Bangladesh concerning its relationship with China. Bangladesh’s engagement with China has witnessed significant transformations over the years, characterized by a growing strategic partnership and economic cooperation. Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China. Additionally, it delves into the various dimensions of the bilateral relationship, including political, economic, and security cooperation.

Bangladesh, a South Asian nation located at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, has undergone significant shifts in its foreign policy approach since gaining independence in 1971. Over the past decade, Bangladesh has increasingly focused on strengthening its bilateral relationship with China. This shift reflects Bangladesh’s pursuit of economic growth, infrastructural development, and regional cooperation in the face of emerging geopolitical dynamics.

The foundation of Bangladesh-China relations dates back to 1975 when China became one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh as an independent nation. At that time, both countries shared a common ideological bond as non-aligned nations and sought to enhance their diplomatic ties. However, the relationship remained relatively modest in its early years.

The past two decades have witnessed a significant transformation in Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China. The introduction of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013 marked a turning point, as Bangladesh saw an opportunity to leverage Chinese investments and cooperation for its economic development and infrastructural projects. Since then, Bangladesh has actively pursued deeper engagement with China, forging a strategic partnership that extends beyond economic cooperation.

The strategic partnership between Bangladesh and China encompasses several dimensions, including political, economic, and security cooperation. This partnership has the potential to shape regional dynamics in South Asia and beyond, and both countries have expressed a shared commitment to pursuing mutual interests and maintaining stability in the region.

Drivers of Bangladesh-China Relations

• Economic Cooperation

Economic considerations play a central role in shaping Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China. China’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse and its investments in infrastructure development align with Bangladesh’s goals of achieving rapid economic growth, reducing poverty, and addressing infrastructural deficiencies. The economic cooperation between the two countries encompasses trade, investment, and development projects.

• Strategic Interests

Bangladesh’s engagement with China also stems from its strategic interests. By forging closer ties with China, Bangladesh aims to balance regional power dynamics, reduce dependence on a single ally, and diversify its strategic partnerships. Additionally, China’s influence in international forums and its role in global governance makes it an attractive partner for Bangladesh.

• Regional Dynamics

The evolving geopolitical landscape in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region also influences Bangladesh’s foreign policy orientation. Bangladesh’s relationship with China is partially shaped by the region’s power dynamics, including its interactions with India and other neighbouring countries. China’s growing influence in the region and its connectivity projects provide Bangladesh with opportunities for regional integration and economic cooperation.

Objectives of Bangladesh’s Foreign Policy with China

• Economic Development and Trade

Enhancing economic development and expanding trade relations are key objectives of Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China. The bilateral trade volume has grown significantly over the years, and both countries have expressed a desire to further strengthen economic ties. Bangladesh seeks to benefit from Chinese investments, technology transfers, and market access to boost its export capacity and create employment opportunities.

Infrastructure and Connectivity Projects

The development of infrastructure and connectivity is a crucial aspect of Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China. China’s involvement in various infrastructural projects, such as roads, bridges, railways, and ports, aims to improve connectivity within Bangladesh and the wider region. These projects align with Bangladesh’s vision of becoming a regional hub for trade and investment.

•  Defence and Security Cooperation

Defence and security cooperation between Bangladesh and China has gained prominence in recent years. The two countries engage in joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defence industry collaboration. Bangladesh seeks to enhance its defence capabilities and strengthen its security apparatus through cooperation with China.

• Energy and Resource Collaboration

Addressing energy demands and securing access to resources are vital considerations for Bangladesh. China’s involvement in energy projects, such as power plants and natural gas exploration, contributes to Bangladesh’s energy security objectives. The collaboration also includes resource exploration and cooperation in sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and water management.

Dimensions of the Bangladesh-China Relationship

•  Political Cooperation

Political cooperation forms an essential dimension of the Bangladesh-China relationship. High-level visits, diplomatic dialogues, and exchange programs contribute to enhancing political understanding and trust between the two countries. Both countries also support each other’s positions on various regional and international issues, further strengthening their political ties.

• Economic Ties and Investment

Economic cooperation between Bangladesh and China has expanded significantly in recent years. China has become one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade volume reaching substantial figures. Chinese investments in Bangladesh cover a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, and telecommunications. Moreover, initiatives like the BRI have created opportunities for joint ventures and economic collaboration.

• Development Assistance and Aid

China has been providing development assistance and aid to Bangladesh in various forms, including grants, loans, and technical cooperation. These initiatives focus on infrastructure development, capacity building, human resource development, agriculture, health, and education. China’s assistance has played a significant role in supporting Bangladesh’s development goals.

• People-to-People Exchanges

People-to-people exchanges have been actively promoted between Bangladesh and China. Cultural exchanges, academic collaborations, and tourism have strengthened the cultural understanding and mutual appreciation between the two nations. Furthermore, educational scholarships and training programs have facilitated the exchange of students, researchers, and professionals, fostering long-term bonds.

• Security Cooperation and Defense Ties

Security cooperation between Bangladesh and China has gained momentum in recent years. Both countries engage in joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defence industry cooperation. China has also supplied military equipment to Bangladesh, supporting its defence modernization efforts. The collaboration extends to counterterrorism, maritime security, and peacekeeping operations.

Implications and Challenges

• Regional Balance of Power

Bangladesh’s growing alignment with China has implications for the regional balance of power. It affects the dynamics between Bangladesh, India, and other regional actors. While it diversifies Bangladesh’s strategic options, it may also generate concerns among neighbouring countries, particularly India, impacting regional stability and cooperation.

• India’s Perspective

India’s perception of Bangladesh’s relationship with China is a crucial factor to consider. Bangladesh aims to maintain a balanced approach and address India’s concerns to avoid any perception of an adversarial alignment. India’s strategic calculations and its engagement with Bangladesh influence the dynamics of the Bangladesh-China relationship.

• Geopolitical and Security Concerns

The deepening ties between Bangladesh and China have raised geopolitical and security concerns for various stakeholders. These concerns include potential over-reliance on China, risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects, and implications for regional security dynamics. Balancing economic benefits with security considerations remains a challenge for Bangladesh.

• Debt Dependency and Economic Risks

One potential challenge is the risk of debt dependency and economic vulnerabilities associated with large-scale Chinese investments and loans. Bangladesh must carefully manage its debt burden and ensure sustainable economic development while availing itself of Chinese support. Balancing economic cooperation with long-term financial sustainability is crucial.

• Public Perception and Domestic Politics

The perception of the Bangladesh-China relationship among the general public and domestic political actors plays a significant role. Public opinion, media narratives, and political debates can shape the trajectory of the relationship. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and public awareness of the benefits and risks associated with the partnership is vital.

Recommendations for Future Policy Considerations

• Diversification of Partnerships

Bangladesh should strive to diversify its strategic partnerships and engage with a range of countries to mitigate risks and dependencies. Strengthening relationships with other regional and global actors can provide alternative options for economic cooperation, security collaboration, and diplomatic engagement.

•  Balancing National Interests

Bangladesh needs to strike a balance between its national interests and the benefits of its relationship with China. It should ensure that its economic, security, and developmental goals align with its broader national objectives. Regular assessments of the alignment between the two countries interests are necessary.

•  Strengthening Transparency and Accountability

Enhancing transparency and accountability in bilateral agreements, project implementation, and financial transactions will help address concerns related to corruption, debt sustainability, and public perception. Both governments should adopt robust mechanisms for transparency and accountability in their cooperation.

• Addressing Security Concerns

Bangladesh should maintain a comprehensive approach to security cooperation with China, ensuring that it aligns with regional security frameworks and contributes to the overall stability of the region. Regular dialogue and information-sharing with neighbouring countries, particularly India, can help address security concerns.

• Enhancing Public Diplomacy Efforts

Improving public diplomacy efforts is crucial to managing public perception and shaping the narrative surrounding the Bangladesh-China relationship. Engaging with civil society organizations, media outlets, think tanks and academia can help promote a better understanding of the benefits and challenges associated with the partnership.

Bangladesh’s foreign policy with China has witnessed significant developments in recent years, characterized by a growing strategic partnership and deepening economic cooperation. The relationship has evolved from a modest diplomatic engagement to a multifaceted collaboration covering various dimensions, including political, economic, and security ties.

While the partnership holds numerous benefits for Bangladesh, it also poses challenges and implications that require careful management. Balancing national interests, addressing security concerns, ensuring transparency and accountability, and diversifying partnerships are key considerations for Bangladesh’s future policy. By navigating these complexities, Bangladesh can maximize the benefits of its relationship with China while safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and long-term development.