I. Introduction to china-bangladesh friendship
Friendship knows no borders, and the bond between nations can be as profound as the connections forged between individuals. China and Bangladesh have enjoyed a strong and enduring friendship over the years, solidifying their bond with shared values, experiences, and instances that exemplify the adage “a friend in need is a friend indeed.” The friendship between China and Bangladesh dates back to August 10, 1975, when China officially established diplomatic ties with Bangladesh[1]. The China-Bangladesh friendship holds a significant place in the global political arena, marking a strategic partnership that has evolved over the years. This relationship has been characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and support, with both countries benefiting from each other in various domains. The phrase “A Friend in Need” aptly captures the essence of this enduring friendship, as it highlights the unwavering support and assistance that China has provided to Bangladesh, especially in times of need.
II. Values and esssence of china-bangladesh friendship
The values and essence of the enduring friendship between China and Bangladesh go beyond mere diplomatic ties, delving into a rich tapestry woven with threads of mutual respect, trust, and cooperation. This robust relationship has been nurtured by a shared history of cultural exchange and diplomatic camaraderie, laying a resilient foundation for the bond between these two nations. Beyond the ceremonial realm of politics, the true strength of this friendship emerges in moments of shared adversity. China’s steadfast support for Bangladesh during challenging times, whether in the face of natural disasters or economic uncertainties, has not only demonstrated the depth of their friendship but has also solidified it. Importantly, this camaraderie is not a transactional alliance driven solely by political or economic interests. Instead, it is firmly rooted in shared values—values that champion peace, development, and prosperity. The essence of the China-Bangladesh friendship lies in a profound commitment to collaborative endeavours, working hand in hand towards common goals that transcend individual interests, and a joint dedication to fostering regional stability and harmony.
III. China’s Support for Bangladesh Development
China has been a steadfast supporter of Bangladesh’s development, providing crucial assistance in various sectors such as infrastructure and economy. The friendship between the two nations has proven to be invaluable for Bangladesh, as China’s support has significantly contributed to the country’s progress. In terms of infrastructural development, China has played a pivotal role in constructing key projects such as bridges, highways, and ports, which have not only improved connectivity within Bangladesh but also enhanced its trade links with other countries. Additionally, China’s investments in the economic sector have boosted Bangladesh’s industrial growth and created employment opportunities for its citizens. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, China has demonstrated its commitment to fostering economic cooperation and shared prosperity with Bangladesh. Overall, China’s unwavering support has been instrumental in driving Bangladesh’s development and strengthening the bond between the two nations.
IV. Transformative Impact: Chinese Technological Prowess in Bangladesh’s Mega Projects
Chinese technological prowess has significantly left its mark on Bangladesh’s mega projects, with the scope of Chinese contractors’ work now surpassing several times the country’s total investment. As per information from both domestic and foreign sources, China’s cumulative investment in Bangladesh currently hovers around 7-8 billion dollars. Notably, Chinese companies and organizations have secured construction contracts exceeding 22 billion dollars in various projects. A slew of Chinese-funded projects has been initiated, with some already reaching completion. Among these, the Padma Bridge Rail Link Project, the construction of a tunnel beneath the Karnaphuli River, the Dhaka-Ashulia Elevated Expressway, and the expansion and fortification of DPDC’s power system network stand out. The Economic Relations Department (ERD) highlights that China has pledged over $10.77 billion in loans and grants since Bangladesh’s independence, with around 6.44 billion dollars utilized, primarily in the last two decades.
Beyond government initiatives, the private sector in Bangladesh has also tapped into Chinese loans, exceeding 2.33 billion dollars, prominently directed towards the power and energy sector. A prime example is the construction of a private power plant in Banshkhali, Chittagong, with an estimated total cost of about 2.49 billion dollars. Chinese sources, including China Development Bank, Bank of China, and China Construction Bank, have contributed approximately $1.76 billion in debt financing to this venture. According to the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), a US think tank, the cumulative Chinese investment in Bangladesh has reached 7.07 billion dollars. Notably, Chinese companies have secured construction contracts worth a substantial 22.94 billion dollars across various sectors in Bangladesh, showcasing the transformative role of Chinese technology in shaping the country’s infrastructural landscape.
V. Values that define China-Bangladesh Friendship
At the heart of the enduring friendship between China and Bangladesh are a set of deeply ingrained values that transcend mere diplomatic relations. This profound connection is forged upon the pillars of mutual respect, trust, and a collaborative spirit. Both nations share a fundamental commitment to fostering economic development and alleviating poverty, recognizing these endeavours as crucial pathways to improving the quality of life for their citizens. Beyond these common objectives, China and Bangladesh unite in their vision for broader regional prosperity. This involves not only bolstering their own economic landscapes but also actively contributing to the development and connectivity of the entire region. Their joint commitment to promoting regional connectivity serves as a testament to their shared belief in the transformative power of collaboration.
Furthermore, the two countries navigate the global landscape hand in hand, emphasizing the importance of trade facilitation and integration into the global value chain. This collective outlook extends beyond mere economic considerations; it symbolizes a shared aspiration to be active participants in the global dialogue, shaping the future of international relations. In essence, the values underpinning the China-Bangladesh friendship are multifaceted, encompassing not only the immediate goals of economic growth and poverty reduction but also the broader vision of fostering regional and global prosperity through collaborative efforts. This shared value system forms the bedrock of a friendship that transcends borders and stands resilient in the face of evolving challenges.
VI. Bangladesh-China Economic Friends
One of the main pillars of Bangladesh-China relations is economic cooperation. China is Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $24.1 billion in 2021. China is also Bangladesh’s largest source of imports, mainly consisting of machinery, textiles, chemicals, and electronics. Bangladesh exports mainly jute, leather, garments, and agricultural products to China[2].
However, there is a large trade imbalance between the two countries, as Bangladesh’s imports from China are much higher than its exports. In 2018, Bangladesh’s trade deficit with China was $11 billion, which accounted for 40% of its total trade deficit. [3] To address this issue, China has offered duty-free access to 97% of Bangladeshi products under the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) since 2010. China has also pledged to import more from Bangladesh, especially in the fields of agriculture, fisheries, and pharmaceuticals. [4] Besides trade, China is also a major investor and development partner of Bangladesh. China is the second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh, with cumulative FDI reaching $3.6 billion by June 2020. China’s investments are mainly concentrated in the sectors of power, infrastructure, telecommunications, and manufacturing. Some of the notable projects that China has financed or participated in Bangladesh include the Padma Bridge, the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway, the Payra Power Plant, the Karnaphuli Tunnel, and the Bangabandhu Satellite.
In addition to economic cooperation, China also provides assistance to Bangladesh in various fields, such as education, health, culture, and disaster relief. China has offered scholarships, training programs, and exchange visits to thousands of Bangladeshi students, professionals, and officials. China has also donated medical supplies, equipment, and vaccines to Bangladesh to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic. China has also supported Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts to host the Rohingya refugees from Myanmar.
VII. China’s Diverse Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students
China opens its doors wide to Bangladeshi students, extending a plethora of scholarship opportunities to foster educational exchange and collaboration. Among the notable scholarships is the prestigious Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), widely considered as one of the most esteemed educational grants in China. This scholarship not only covers full tuition fees but also offers a monthly stipend of approximately 35,000 BDT, providing comprehensive support for students pursuing higher education.
Beyond the CSC, various other scholarship programs beckon Bangladeshi scholars, including the Chinese Local Government Scholarship, China-Bangladesh Friendship Scholarship, Chinese University Scholarship, Confucius Institute Scholarship, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Government Scholarships, The Leakey Foundation-Franklin Mosher Baldwin Memorial Fellowships, Leakey Foundation Research Grants, and Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) PhD Fellowships. Each of these scholarships caters to different academic pursuits, offering opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
In a noteworthy achievement, 55 Bangladeshi students secured the Chinese Government Scholarship in 2023, attesting to the robust educational ties between the two nations.[5] These scholarships not only financially support students but also serve as a bridge for cultural exchange and academic collaboration, further strengthening the enduring friendship between China and Bangladesh.
VIII. Military Cooperation
The military cooperation between China and Bangladesh has also been a crucial aspect of their friendship. Both countries have engaged in defense collaboration, including military training, joint exercises, and defense equipment procurement. China has provided valuable support to Bangladesh in enhancing its defense capabilities, thereby contributing to the country’s national security and defense preparedness. The exchange of military delegations and the sharing of strategic insights have further solidified the defense ties between the two nations, fostering a sense of mutual trust and cooperation in the realm of security.
IX. Cultural Exchange
Cultural exchanges have played a pivotal role in strengthening the people-to-people ties between China and Bangladesh. The rich cultural heritage of both nations has been celebrated through various cultural exchange programs, art exhibitions, and educational initiatives. These exchanges have not only promoted cultural understanding and appreciation but have also fostered a sense of goodwill and friendship among the citizens of both countries. The exchange of cultural delegations, performing arts troupes, and academic scholars has contributed to the deepening of cultural ties, transcending geographical boundaries, and promoting cross-cultural harmony.
X. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
The concept of “A Friend in Need” finds profound resonance in the context of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. China has consistently extended its support to Bangladesh during times of natural disasters, providing humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and disaster relief materials. The rapid response and generous assistance from China have been instrumental in mitigating the impact of natural calamities and addressing the humanitarian needs of the affected communities in Bangladesh. This display of solidarity and empathy has not only strengthened the bond between the two nations but has also exemplified the spirit of friendship and support during challenging times.
XI. Conclusion
In the tapestry of the China-Bangladesh friendship, challenges and opportunities weave a dynamic narrative that underscores the resilience and adaptability of this enduring bond. The complexities of evolving geopolitical dynamics and economic fluctuations pose challenges that demand nuanced diplomacy and strategic foresight. However, within these challenges lie opportunities for both nations to deepen their friendship, explore novel avenues of cooperation, and engage in constructive dialogue to address mutual concerns. In reflection, the multifaceted nature of the China-Bangladesh friendship shines brightly, encompassing a wide spectrum of collaborations from economic ventures to cultural exchanges. This relationship has weathered the tests of time, emerging as a beacon of mutual respect and unwavering support. The phrase “A Friend in Need” rings true as China consistently stands by Bangladesh, extending a helping hand and solidarity in moments of need.
As both nations chart a course towards shared prosperity and development, the China-Bangladesh friendship emerges as a cornerstone of stability and progress in the region. This enduring partnership embodies the spirit of lasting friendship and cooperation, transcending challenges and embracing opportunities for mutual benefit and sustainable growth. In this concluding chapter, the story of China and Bangladesh unfolds as a testament to the power of collaboration, a narrative that continues to shape the future with shared values and shared aspirations.
References
- Amin, M. and Nion, S. R. (2023). “change” and “constant” in international relations: a case study based on the china-bangladesh perspective. South Asian Journal of Social Studies and Economics, 17(4), 46-54. https://doi.org/10.9734/sajsse/2023/v17i4645
- China (CHN) and Bangladesh (BGD) Trade | The Observatory of Economic …. https://oec.world/en/profile/bilateral-country/chn/partner/bgd.
- Making the most of Bangladesh–India trade | East Asia Forum. https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2019/09/17/making-the-most-of-bangladesh-india-trade/
- Trade ties between China, Bangladesh on the rise. https://sundayguardianlive.com/world/trade-ties-china-bangladesh-rise
- https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/education/55-bangladeshi-students-get-chinese-government-scholarship-year
Writer Name: Ahmed Rayhan
Institution: Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology
