China expects Teesta project to begin soon
Diplomatic Correspondent:
China expects that the Teesta project will begin soon following the green signal of the government of Bangladesh.
The project aims to restore the Teesta River’s flow, enhance irrigation, and protect river-dependent communities from flooding and erosion in the northern part of Bangladesh.
Replying to a question of the journalists at the Foreign Ministry on Sunday, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, shared his anticipation for the imminent start of the Teesta project.
He highlighted that discussions about the initiative have been ongoing for a long time, and with the formation of the new government in Bangladesh, the project is now on the verge of commencement.
“We are ready to move forward with the Teesta project,” said Ambassador Yao Wen. “This is one of the initiatives that we have been discussing for years, and we are hopeful that with the new government in place, the work will begin soon.”
The Teesta River, a crucial water source for millions in Bangladesh, has long been a point of cooperation between Bangladesh and India, and the new project is expected to address several longstanding environmental and infrastructural challenges in the region.
During his call on with the Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman at the ministry, Ambassador Yao also extended China’s firm support for Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his “Bangladesh First” policy.
He reiterated that China values its strategic partnership with Bangladesh and is eager to expand cooperation across all sectors.
“The leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman marks a new chapter in our bilateral relationship,” Yao said.
He also said that the Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s intends to work closely with Bangladesh Prime Minsiter to further deepen bilateral cooperation.
Foreign Minister Dr. Rahman underscored the importance of advancing the Bangladesh-China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
“Bangladesh will continue to pursue a friendly policy toward China, enhance its friendship with China, and looks forward to further deepening practical cooperation with China for the greater benefit of both peoples,” Rahman said.
During the meeting, Ambassador Wen conveyed an invitation from the Chinese Foreign Minister for Dr. Rahman to undertake an official visit to China at a mutually convenient time.
In addition to the Teesta project, the two sides discussed other bilateral matters, including regional stability and the ongoing Rohingya crisis.
Ambassador Yao reaffirmed China’s support for Bangladesh’s efforts to repatriate Rohingya refugees, calling for more cooperation between all relevant stakeholders to address the issue.
China’s engagement with Bangladesh, according to Yao, goes beyond just economic and political collaboration.
“China is committed to supporting Bangladesh in maintaining its national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity,” he said.
“We see Bangladesh as an important strategic partner in the region, and we look forward to working together to resolve key challenges such as the Rohingya issue.”
While discussing the broader China-Bangladesh relationship, Ambassador Yao highlighted the historical depth of ties, noting that the roots of their diplomatic relations were laid during the tenure of late President Ziaur Rahman and matured further under the leadership of Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
He expressed confidence that under the current leadership, the two countries would take their partnership to new heights.
“The relationship between China and Bangladesh is built on mutual respect and shared interests,” Yao added.
“We are fully committed to continuing this journey with Bangladesh, deepening cooperation, and contributing to its development.”
Ambassador Yao also addressed concerns about external pressures affecting China-Bangladesh relations.
“No external pressure or third party can influence the strong bond between our two nations,” he said.
“China and Bangladesh are determined to carry on with their cooperation and ensure the successful implementation of joint projects, including the Teesta project.”
As both countries look forward to strengthening their bilateral relationship, the Teesta River project stands as a symbol of their ongoing collaboration, with hopes high that it will soon be a reality, benefiting both Bangladesh and China in the years to come.
In a separate meeting with the State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Yao Wen said that China and Bangladesh have always supported each other, treated each other as equals and pursued win-win cooperation.