CSCSS int'l conference: Impacts of Rohingya crisis, security challenges discussed

Speakers at an international conference on Saturday (28 December) discussed the impacts of the Rohingya crisis, security dilemma, and counterterrorism centred on the humanitarian and security challenges posed by the crisis in Bangladesh.

The second day of the international conference on "China - South Asia: Civilization and Connectivity: History and Contemporary Issues" featured thematic sessions focusing on political and diplomatic dynamics, media and communication, economic and trade connections, AI and cyber diplomacy, and health and medicine, fostering robust dialogue and insights on regional challenges and opportunities.

The two-day conference was jointly organised by the China–South Asia Center for Sociocultural Studies (CSCSS) of the South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG) at North South University (NSU), Bangladesh, and Yunnan University, China, concluded with discussions across key themes addressing historical, cultural, geopolitical, and socio-economic aspects of the region.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain spoke as the chief guest at the inaugural session on Friday while Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen spoke as guest of honour. Vice Chancellor of NSU Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury chaired the session.

The concluding session, chaired by Prof Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Pro Vice-Chancellor of NSU, featured a summary of key outcomes by Prof Mohammed Nuruzzaman.

Li Shaopeng, cultural counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, emphasised the value of academic collaborations in fostering regional prosperity and connectivity.

Md Mahbubur Rahman analysed the socio-political impacts of the refugee influx, while Md. Rashidul Islam Rusel emphasised the need for ethical frameworks to address these challenges.

Dr Shabana Fayyaz explored integrating counterterrorism strategies with economic development to protect Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects.

The "Public Perceptions and Bilateral Relations" sessions highlighted the role of media narratives and public sentiment in shaping regional relations.

Presentations by Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Akram Hossain, and Syed Shahnawaz Mohsin underscored the need for ethical journalism, improved media literacy, and cultural diplomacy to foster stronger ties among South Asian nations.

Discussions explored the strategic significance of the Indo-Pacific and Bay of Bengal regions amidst growing geopolitical rivalries.

Imtiaz A Hussain and David Jiang analysed the interplay between economic initiatives like BRI and security concerns, emphasising the need for regional cooperation and stability.

Participants examined how the Belt and Road Initiative could strengthen cultural ties and promote mutual understanding.

Presentations emphasised leveraging historical legacies for modern connectivity and aligning BRI goals with local priorities to ensure sustainable development.

The conference reaffirmed the importance of shared histories, such as the Silk Road, in fostering modern initiatives like the BRI.

Ethical journalism and cultural diplomacy were highlighted as critical tools to bridge gaps and improve bilateral relations in South Asia.

Discussions emphasised balancing economic growth with security strategies to foster stability among South Asian nations.

Aligning BRI projects with local needs and sustainable development goals was recommended to enhance regional progress.

The two-day event hosted over 125 participants, including scholars, policymakers, and international experts, reflecting North South University's commitment to fostering academic dialogue and regional cooperation, said the organizers on Saturday.

The conference underscored the importance of building bridges between China and South Asia to address shared challenges and opportunities.