Bangladesh and China's relationship has attracted a lot of attention lately as it shows a dynamic and changing cooperation going beyond simple infrastructure support. Very recently, as a part of a think-tank team invited by the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, I got the rare chance to visit China with university professors, retired government officials, representatives of civil society, and research groups. This trip gave me a great understanding of the subtleties of the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China as well as the mutual goals and objectives behind this cooperation.
During our trip, we spoke with senior officials of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as several think-tank organizations on a range of concerns relevant to our bilateral ties. The Chinese government's plan to deepen its ties with Bangladesh beyond the parameters of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was among the most startling disclosures. Although BRI has been very helpful in promoting infrastructural development in Bangladesh, the Chinese want closer, more complex relationships across political, cultural, and economic spheres.
Approaching the 50th anniversary of the Bangladesh-China friendship, scheduled for 2025, this year represents a major turning point. This approaching jubilee provides a contemplative time to assess development and plot future directions of cooperation. The exchanges during our tour highlighted the Chinese excitement to honour this historic country with more collaboration and mutual development.
As declared by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Bangladesh, the fundamental principle of Bangladesh’s foreign policy is "friendliness to all, malice to none." Bangladesh's diplomatic relations -- including its interaction with China -- have been greatly shaped by this principle.
Bangladesh has been able to ensure a solid balance while maintaining its relationship with different countries. The Chinese counterpart underlined Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's importance not just in guiding Bangladesh's development path but also in her powerful presence on the international scene. Her leadership has been crucial in helping Bangladesh to project a progressive and optimistic image that appeals strongly inside Chinese diplomatic and strategic circles.
There were no official responsibilities on our delegation's trip to China, which permitted real and honest communication of ideas and viewpoints. The Chinese Embassy separately invited every member, indicating an honest and open attitude to offer an opportunity to share our views with them on different issues relating to bilateral relations. This autonomy encouraged open communication, which helped us to grasp the Chinese points of view and aspirations about their interaction with Bangladesh.
One thing that stayed with me was the unmatched friendliness of our Chinese counterparts. The kindness and friendliness we encountered matched the great hospitality of the Bengali people, therefore highlighting a shared cultural thread among Asian cultures. Deeper people-to-people relationships are firmly rooted in the camaraderie and mutual respect this shared cultural ethos of hospitality develops.
China's desire to strengthen its connection with Bangladesh also reflects its larger plan to keep and increase its impact in South Asia
The Chinese desire for closer bilateral relations with Bangladesh is several-sided. Economically, China sees Bangladesh as a key friend in South Asia because of its strategic location that provides major geopolitical advantages. Under the BRI, ports, infrastructure, and industrial zones have grown to constitute evidence of this strategic aim. The Chinese are eager to diversify this connection, though, to include more trade, cross-cultural interactions, and educational cooperation.
Regarding education, academic cooperation between Chinese and Bangladeshi institutions is attracting growing attention. Such programs can open the path for faculties and student interactions, cooperative research collaborations, and knowledge and experience sharing. These educational connections not only enhance the intellectual scene of both nations but also help the younger generations to develop goodwill and understanding between them.
Culturally, cooperation has great possibilities. Both countries have rich cultural legacies and customs that should be honoured by cooperative events, celebrations, and exhibits. By acting as a link, these cross-cultural interactions help to bring the people of both nations closer and foster greater respect for their customs and history.
China recognizes, strategically, Bangladesh's contribution to regional stability and growth. Bangladesh's balanced approach to foreign policy, together with its economic development and expansion, help it to be a major participant in the complicated geopolitical scene of South Asia. China's desire to strengthen its connection with Bangladesh also reflects its larger plan to keep and increase its impact in South Asia.
During our tour, the conversations also covered the need for sustainable growth. Both nations understand the difficulties presented by climate change as well as the importance of group efforts in sustainable practices and environmental protection. China's developments in renewable energy and green technologies might provide Bangladesh's sustainability projects great inspiration and assistance.
We should build on the current basis and investigate fresh directions of collaboration as we approach the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China ties. The Chinese people's enthusiasm to strengthen their relations with Bangladesh is a good indication of their dedication to cooperation that benefits not only both countries but also helps to maintain regional peace and development.
All things considered, the trip to China was eye-opening and made clear how much Bangladesh is becoming of significance to China. It strengthened the idea that bilateral interactions based on mutual respect, common interests, and a dedication to cooperative development are most likely to be beneficial. Looking forward to the 50th anniversary of our alliance, Bangladesh and China have a clear road ahead for a voyage of continuous, multifarious collaboration and a fresh feeling of hope.
Dr Pranab Kumar Panday is a Professor in the Department of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi.
