China and Bangladesh relationship

Context:

Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh's Chief Advisor, visited China from March 26-29, 2025, and spoke about Bangladesh's strategic location as a key access point to the ocean for South Asia. He highlighted the country's potential as a maritime gateway and its role in regional economic connections. His remarks come ahead of the BIMSTEC summit, where Bangladesh will assume the chair.

Key Points from Yunus' Visit to China:

- Strategic Partnership: Yunus invited China to invest in Bangladesh, leveraging its strategic location to tap into the regional economy and access the global market.

- Economic Collaboration: The two nations signed nine agreements covering economic and technical cooperation, infrastructure, media, culture, and health.

- Free Trade Agreement: China and Bangladesh agreed to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to increase trade and economic cooperation.

Controversial Reference to India’s Northeast

Yunus mentioned India’s seven northeastern states, often called the “Seven Sisters,” describing them as landlocked and in need of better access to the ocean. He suggested that Bangladesh could serve as a link for economic connections between China and India’s northeast. This remark drew attention in India, as the region holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the China-India border.

Concerns for India:

Strategic Sensitivity of India’s Northeast

The northeastern states of India—Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh—are strategically crucial for national security and connectivity.
These states are bordered by China, and any Chinese economic or infrastructural influence close to the border is perceived as a threat to India’s security.

2. China’s Expanding Influence in South Asia

India is wary of China’s growing presence in South Asia, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
India fears that China’s involvement in Bangladesh could translate into strategic military influence, heightening tensions between China and India over territorial disputes.

3. The Siliguri Corridor: A Vulnerable Link

The Siliguri Corridor, also called the “Chicken’s Neck,” is a narrow landstrip connecting India’s northeastern states to the rest of the country.
India is concerned that increased Chinese access to Bangladesh could jeopardize its control over this strategic link, potentially weakening the country’s defense posture in the region.

4. China’s Infrastructure Projects Near India’s Borders

China has been actively building infrastructure near India’s borders, including roads, dams, and villages in areas like Arunachal Pradesh, which India claims.
These projects are seen as part of China’s strategy to assert its influence in the region, raising alarms in India.
Any further Chinese involvement in Bangladesh, particularly near sensitive border areas, could lead to China strengthening its military or intelligence infrastructure close to India’s borders.

Conclusion

Yunus’ visit to China marks a significant moment in South Asia’s geopolitical landscape. While it presents Bangladesh with opportunities for economic growth through Chinese investment, it also adds complexity to its relationship with India, particularly concerning the strategic significance of the northeastern states. The evolving interactions among India, Bangladesh, and China will play a crucial role in shaping regional dynamics.