Al Mamun Harun Ur Rashid, back from Yunnan, China :
A Chinese think tank has reiterated that non-interference remains a core principle of China’s diplomatic approach, stressing that China would never use Bangladesh as a tool to counterbalance any superpower.
This position was articulated during a recent discussion at the Yunnan Academy of Social Sciences (YASS), where a media delegation, including this correspondent, engaged in talks focused on China-Bangladesh relations and China’s commitment to non-interference.
Guo Suiyan, an Associate Professor at YASS, stated, “Non-interference is a fundamental tenet of Chinese diplomacy and is in the best interests of the region.
Whether Bangladesh faces pressure from the United States or India, or China encounters similar challenges, our approach remains consistent. China would never treat Bangladesh as a tool to counter any superpower.”
She further emphasised that China respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty, recognising its independent development goals and diplomatic strategies. “China aims to contribute to regional stability, ensuring that all parties benefit through cooperation,” she added.
Professor Guo highlighted that China’s engagement with Bangladesh is pragmatic, focusing on tangible needs such as economic growth, trade enhancement, infrastructure development, and regional connectivity.
Addressing the Rohingya crisis, she expressed China’s commitment to playing a constructive role by acting as an intermediary and collaborating with Bangladesh to maintain regional stability.
The discussion also underscored Yunnan province’s significant role in strengthening bilateral ties between China and Bangladesh.
Professor Yang Zhengquan, President of YASS, noted that the two nations have developed a robust relationship over the years, driven by mutual economic interests, regional stability, and shared strategic goals.
“Given its geographical proximity and cultural ties, Yunnan serves as a crucial gateway for trade and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations,” Yang remarked.
Professor Chen Lijun, Vice President of YASS, echoed these sentiments, stating that China seeks to promote regional stability by fostering cooperation that delivers practical benefits to both countries and the wider region.
On the topic of economic cooperation, Professor Cheng Min highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic position along the Bay of Bengal, which makes it a key partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
“As the first South Asian country to join the BRI in 2016, Bangladesh has reaped significant benefits, particularly in enhancing regional connectivity,” he said. Cheng added that nearly 700 Chinese enterprises are currently operating in Bangladesh, facilitating bilateral trade.
“Recent trade has seen substantial growth, with Yunnan exporting machinery, textiles, and chemical products to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh supplies agricultural products and raw materials to China,” he noted.
Cheng also urged both countries to explore new avenues for collaboration in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and tourism.
Climate change and disaster mitigation have emerged as key areas of China-Bangladesh cooperation.
Associate Professor Guo Na emphasised the shared challenges faced by both countries in tackling climate change. “Our collaboration in this area serves the mutual interests of both nations,” she asserted.
The strategic importance of the Bay of Bengal was also discussed. Associate Professor Deng Lan highlighted the region’s significance for China, Bangladesh, and the broader South and Southeast Asian area.
“As regional economies move towards greater integration and cooperation, the Bay of Bengal has become a focal point for development initiatives,” Deng remarked.
She added that Bangladesh, due to its strategic location, is well-positioned to play a leading role in fostering regional stability and economic progress.
To further enhance bilateral relations, Professor Hongmei stressed the importance of think tanks. While economic and political cooperation has advanced, intellectual exchanges remain limited.
She proposed establishing a China-Bangladesh Think Tank Network to facilitate regular discussions on strategic issues such as regional security, economic development, and climate change.
Associate Professor Lin Yanming highlighted the role of people-to-people connectivity as a key pillar of bilateral and regional cooperation.
He noted that cultural exchanges have fostered deeper “heart-to-heart connections” with neighbouring countries, which is essential for regional collaboration.
The Chinese think tank expressed confidence that both nations remain committed to building a future based on mutual respect and shared interests.
With the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaching, there is optimism that China-Bangladesh ties will continue to strengthen, benefiting both countries and the wider region.
