Diplomatic Correspondent :
Bangladesh faces a tough decision as both China and India express interest in financing the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project.
This crucial project aims to alleviate water scarcity in Bangladesh’s northern regions.
China has been actively pursuing the Teesta project for years, hoping to secure the contract; however, in a surprising turn of events, India’s Foreign Secretary offered to finance the project during recent talks with Bangladesh.
This proposal likely stems from India’s concerns about the project’s proximity to its border.
As the situation escalates, Bangladesh faces problems as it has relationships with both countries. India is a historical partner with shared borders and rivers. The current government has also strengthened ties with India.
However, China has become a significant strategic partner with ongoing projects in Bangladesh.
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud made it clear on the issue that Bangladesh will choose the partner who best addresses its needs for the Teesta project.
It is known that the Teesta River is considered the lifeline of the northern regions for irrigation and conservation of aquatic life and environment, but the unilateral withdrawal of water and the setting up of numerous dams on this international river by India have worsened the situation.
Amid this situation, Bangladesh has decided to undertake a project to save the river and its surrounding territories.
According to the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration project, it would create a 100-kilometre embankment on both sides of the river, 115-kilometre four-lane roads on the river banks, a massive drainage system, the construction of satellite cities, the dredging of 108 km of the river, and the preservation of assets worth Tk 1130 billion.
Besides, the project will generate huge job opportunities for the locals of the area.
Apart from Teesta, they have also talked about another sensitive issue: the border killings.
Hasan Mahmud said that he had a comprehensive discussion with Vinay Kwatra regarding this issue.
“We have emphasised not to use lethal weapons. He (Kwatra) has informed us that India has given instructions to their border security forces. And they follow that. There is no lack of sincerity between the two countries at the governmental and political levels regarding this.”
Asked about the fact the fact that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has scheduled visits to both India and China at a very close time, Hasan Mahmud did not reveal which visit would take place first.
However, he said, “Delhi is closer; Beijing is a bit farther away.” Regarding electricity imports from Nepal via India, Hasan Mahmud said, “We have talked about the physical connectivity.
The discussion has progressed, especially Regarding electricity imports from Nepal to India, Hasan Mahmud said, “We have discussed physical connectivity. It has progressed significantly, especially cooperating with Nepal and Bhutan in allowing transit and importing hydropower from these two countries.”
“Everything has been finalised regarding importing hydropower from Nepal. Discussions on tariffs have also largely concluded. This will go to our procurement committee. If it happens, we will be able to import 40 megawatts of electricity from Nepal through India,” he concluded.
They have also talked about the easing of Indian visa processing so that Bangladeshi citizens can obtain visas without much difficulty.
