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China Reaffirms Support for Bangladesh's Transition, Key Projects

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen met with Bangladesh's National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman in Dhaka, with discussions held in a cordial atmosphere. Key topics included the Teesta River Comprehensive Management project and the proposed Bangladesh-China Friendship Hospital. The Chinese envoy reaffirmed China's commitment to completing technical assessments and offered support for Bangladesh's ongoing democratic transition and forthcoming elections. The meeting highlighted sustained positive momentum in bilateral relations, building on significant financial agreements signed during a 2025 visit by Bangladesh's Chief Adviser.

Key Points: China-Bangladesh Talks: Teesta Project & Election Support

  • Teesta River project discussed
  • Support for democratic transition
  • USD 2.1B deals from 2025 visit
  • Bilateral relations strengthening
  • Focus on infrastructure & digital development
2 min read

Chinese envoy Yao Wen meets Bangladesh NSA Khalilur Rahman in Dhaka

Chinese envoy meets Bangladesh NSA, discusses Teesta River project, bilateral cooperation, and reaffirms support for Bangladesh's democratic transition.

"reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and development cooperation between Bangladesh and China - Official Statement"

Dhaka, January 18

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman at the Chief Adviser's Office on Sunday, according to a statement from the office of Bangladesh Interim government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.

The statement said the meeting was held in a "cordial and constructive atmosphere," during which both sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and development cooperation between Bangladesh and China.

Discussions included the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project and the proposed Bangladesh-China Friendship Hospital, the statement noted.

In this context, the Chinese Ambassador informed that he would visit the Teesta project area and reiterated China's commitment to expeditiously completing the ongoing technical assessment.

The statement further said the Ambassador reaffirmed his government's continued support for Bangladesh's ongoing democratic transition and conveyed best wishes for the successful conduct of the forthcoming national elections.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum in bilateral relations and reiterated their shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation for mutual benefit, the statement added.

In 2025, Bangladesh substantially expanded its strategic and economic engagement with China, highlighted by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus's visit to Beijing, during which agreements worth over USD 2.1 billion in investments, loans and grants were signed for infrastructure, energy and digital development.

The moves signalled a stronger phase of alignment following the change in government, increasing China's footprint.

Key developments included a trilateral dialogue with Pakistan, greater Chinese backing for the Teesta project, and an emphasis on economic integration and digital infrastructure, with Beijing offering major financial support for priority initiatives.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's interesting to see China reaffirming support for Bangladesh's "democratic transition." Hopefully, this engagement brings genuine development benefits to the people of Bangladesh and not just debt-trap diplomacy. The hospital project sounds positive if implemented transparently.
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Aman W
The $2.1 billion figure is telling. China is moving fast to fill spaces. India needs to match this with faster project execution in connectivity and development partnerships with Dhaka. Action speaks louder than words.
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Sarah B
Observing from a foreign policy perspective, the mention of a "trilateral dialogue with Pakistan" is the most significant part here. This shapes a new strategic geometry in the region that India will have to account for in its calculus.
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Vikram M
Bangladesh is a sovereign nation and will make choices in its interest. Our focus should be on strengthening our own ties—trade, connectivity, people-to-people links. The historical and cultural bond is our biggest asset, not panic over every Chinese meeting.
K
Karthik V
While strategic concerns are valid, let's not forget the core issue here is development. If China can help Bangladesh manage the Teesta River effectively, it's good for the region's stability. We should collaborate where possible, not just compete.
N
Nisha Z

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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