Bangladesh seeks Chinese investment in Teesta project, reaffirms One-China policy
China’s engagement in South Asia is not directed at any third party, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says.
Bangladesh today (6 May) called for increased Chinese investment in priority infrastructure projects, including the long-discussed Teesta River initiative, while reaffirming its firm support for the One-China policy during high-level talks in Beijing.
The issues were discussed during a meeting between Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, held as part of Rahman's first official visit to China from 5 to 7 May.
According to a joint press release, Bangladesh sought China's "involvement and support" in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP), aimed at improving water management, preventing floods and boosting agricultural productivity in northern regions.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
The move reflects Dhaka's broader effort to attract foreign investment for critical infrastructure. China expressed willingness to deepen practical cooperation and encouraged its enterprises to invest in Bangladesh, particularly in infrastructure, water resources, digital economy and green development.
During the talks, Bangladesh reiterated its commitment to the One-China principle, affirming that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and expressing opposition to any form of "Taiwan independence."
Wang Yi described Bangladesh as a "reliable partner" and said Beijing is ready to align its Belt and Road cooperation with Bangladesh's development priorities, adding that China's engagement in South Asia is not directed at any third party.
Bangladesh welcomed Chinese enterprises and pledged to ensure a "stable, sound and predictable" business environment to facilitate investment. It also appreciated China's continued support for its development.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues, including the Middle East situation and the Rohingya crisis. China reiterated support for continued dialogue between Bangladesh and Myanmar to facilitate the repatriation of displaced people.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, the principles of the United Nations Charter, and peaceful dispute resolution, while pledging to further strengthen their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
Earlier today, Rahman also met Wang Huning, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, where both sides emphasised expanding cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity and development.
Foreign affairs adviser Humayun Kabir and Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md Nazmul Islam were present at the meeting.
Rahman arrived in Beijing on Tuesday on a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing high-level engagement.
