Bangaldesh is expanding its partnership with China while simultaneously seeking to repair strained relations with India, reflecting a delicate balancing act between Asia’s two largest powers.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman made China a key stop on his first official overseas tour since taking office, signalling Dhaka’s intention to attract greater Chinese investment and economic cooperation as it works to revive the country’s slowing economy.
During his visit to Beijing, Bangladesh signed several agreements with China, including plans for a feasibility study on managing the Teesta River and the development of a special economic zone near Mongla Port. The projects have drawn close attention in New Delhi, where officials remain wary of expanding Chinese influence in Bangladesh.
Relations between India and Bangladesh deteriorated after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in 2024 and fled to India. However, ties have gradually improved since Rahman’s election earlier this year, with both countries restoring cross-border bus services, resuming tourist visas and strengthening economic cooperation.
India also supplied emergency fuel to Bangladesh earlier this year through the Friendship Pipeline after disruptions to global energy markets caused by the Middle East conflict.
Despite these efforts, tensions remain over border issues, trade restrictions and Dhaka’s demand for Hasina’s extradition. Bangladesh has also criticized India’s handling of alleged illegal migrants and inflammatory political rhetoric during election campaigns in the Indian state of West Bengal.
China has sought to reassure India that its growing cooperation with Bangladesh is not directed against any third country. However, Beijing’s expanding role in strategic projects, including the Teesta River initiative and a proposed China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor, continues to raise security concerns in New Delhi.
Analysts say Bangladesh is pursuing a pragmatic foreign policy, seeking to benefit from Chinese investment while maintaining stable relations with India, a neighbour that remains critical to its economy, regional security and cross-border trade.
