Al Mamun Harun Ur Rashid :
Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s recent visit to China marks a historic milestone in Bangladesh’s diplomatic and economic journey, while also demonstrating that the Interim Government is a reliable partner for foreign investment.
This visit sends a strong message to the global community that Bangladesh’s development will continue irrespective of political transitions.
China’s approach to international relations is based on the principle that while political climates may shift, the people of a nation remain constant.
The visit underscores China’s commitment to fostering people-to-people connectivity, which it views as a cornerstone for building robust bilateral relationships.
The significance of this visit cannot be overstated, as it not only reinforces diplomatic ties but also lays the groundwork for economic collaboration between the two nations.
China’s endorsement of the interim government is evident from the substantial commitments made during this visit.
The Chinese government and various corporations have pledged $2.1 billion in investments, loans, and grants.
Among these commitments, nearly 30 Chinese firms have promised to invest one billion dollars in the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) after being encouraged by the Chief Adviser to explore opportunities in Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector.
Additionally, China has agreed to provide $400 million for the modernisation of Mongla Port, $350 million for the development of the CEIZ, and $150 million as technical assistance.
The remaining funds will be extended as grants and other forms of financial support. These assurances highlight that despite Bangladesh’s ongoing political transition, international investments remain viable, reinforcing confidence in the country’s economic stability.
Beyond economic investments, China has also extended a humanitarian hand to Bangladesh. Prior to Dr. Yunus’s visit, China had already opened its healthcare facilities to Bangladeshi patients seeking treatment for critical illnesses at affordable costs.
This initiative has gained further momentum as India has cut down medical visas for Bangladeshis after the fall of Sheikh Hasina government last year in a massive mass uprising.
To facilitate medical travel, China is also planning to introduce a direct flight from Chattogram to Kunming. This move will significantly reduce travel costs and time, enabling more Bangladeshi patients to access advanced medical care in China.
This medical cooperation serves as a testament to China’s commitment to Bangladesh’s welfare beyond economic interests.
The visit has also strengthened cultural, educational, and technological exchanges between the two nations.
The two sides have agreed to deepen cooperation in various sectors, including tourism, media, education, health care, and youth exchange programs. Additionally, China and Bangladesh will enhance collaboration between local governments and think tanks to foster mutual understanding and knowledge-sharing.
One of the most significant agreements signed during the visit was the Implementation Plan of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Exchange of Hydrological Information of the Yarlung Zanbo-Jamuna River. Bangladesh has also welcomed Chinese participation in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP). This cooperation is crucial as Bangladesh aims to enhance its water resource management to mitigate floods and droughts.
Moreover, the two sides have agreed to work together on tackling climate change and exploring the blue economy.
For years, Bangladesh’s potential in the blue economy has remained untapped, existing only in theoretical discussions. However, with China’s expertise and willingness to collaborate, Bangladesh now has a real opportunity to develop its maritime resources effectively.
Strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries, including holding a new round of Dialogue on Maritime Cooperation, will further bolster Bangladesh’s capacity to harness its oceanic wealth.
But above all these issues, China’s open endorsement of Bangladesh’s interim government serves as an inspiration for other countries. The visit has demonstrated that diplomatic and economic cooperation can continue even under transitional political circumstances.
Prior to the China visit, Australia has recently announced that it would begin processing Bangladeshi visas from Dhaka instead of Delhi. This shift is another indication of growing international confidence in the interim government.
China’s proactive stance has also countered skepticism regarding the interim government’s ability to attract foreign investment and maintain economic stability.
It has proven that despite the political uncertainty, Bangladesh remains a favourable destination for investment and collaboration. The assurance from major Chinese corporations underscores that economic opportunities in Bangladesh remain strong, regardless of the political administration in charge.
Dr. Yunus’s visit to China has been a game-changer for Bangladesh’s diplomatic and economic landscape.
India media has already started doing hairsplitting analysis of the visit and outcome from the bilateral meeting between Dr Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Even Indian media and politicians are spreading false information about Dr. Yunus’s statement on the ‘Seven Sisters,’ without considering its deeper implication-that he intended to highlight how this region could benefit from the Bay of Bengal.
When Yunus is talking about collaboration, the Indian media and its politicians are analysing his speech as confrontation.
However, the renewed recognition from China during this visit, coupled with substantial investments and cooperative agreements, has reinforced the legitimacy of the interim government at the global stage.
This visit has not only solidified Bangladesh-China relations but has also encouraged other nations to engage with Bangladesh without hesitation.
This milestone visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s international relations, one that will shape its economic trajectory for years to come.
