The adage ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed’ perfectly encapsulates the enduring and deep-rooted friendship between China and Bangladesh.These two nations, geographically separated yet culturally intertwined, have a shared a remarkable rapport for decades,characterized by mutual respect, unwavering support, and a steadfast commitment to cooperation. Their friendship has transcended the boundaries of geography, politics, economic disparity, standing as a testament to the power of human connection and the shared values of humanity.
The roots of China-Bangladesh friendship can be traced back to the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971. China under the leadership of Chairman Mao Zedong, provided unwavering political and moral support to the Bangladeshi people in their struggle for independence. China’s recognition of Bangladesh as an independent nation in January 1972 played a pivotal role in legitimizing Bangladesh’s sovereignty and paving the way for its acceptance into the international community.
Since then, the China-Bangladesh friendship has flourished, blossoming into a comprehensive partnership that encompasses political, economic, cultural, and social dimensions. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1975, and since then, high-level exchanges have been frequent and cordial. The establishment of the China-Bangladesh Strategic Cooperative Partnership in 2016 marked a new era of cooperation and collaboration, further strengthening the bilateral relationship.
Economic ties between China and Bangladesh have grown exponentially in recent years. China has become Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching over $32 billion in 2022. China has also emerged as a significant investor in Bangladesh, with investments in infrastructure, energy and manufacturing sectors. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries,with numerous infrastructure, energy and manufacturing sectors. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has further enhanced economic cooperation between two countries,with numerous infrastructure projects underway, including the Padma Bridge and the China-Bangladesh Economic and Industrial Park.
China has consistently provided humanitarian aid to Bangladesh during natural disasters such as floods, cyclones, and earthquakes. In 2011, China provided emergency assistance worth $10 million following a devastating cyclone in Bangladesh.
The establishment of the Confucius Institute in Bangladesh in 2007 has been a game-changer in promoting Chinese language and culture. The Institute offers Mandarin Chinese courses, organizes cultural events, and provides teacher training programs, empowering Bangladeshi youth to connect with the rich heritage and vibrant language of China.
China has provided significant assistance to Bangladesh’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, helping to develop skilled labor and improve vocational training infrastructure. This support has equipped Bangladeshi youth with the necessary skills to meet the demands of the evolving job market, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
Cultural and social exchanges between China and Bangladesh have also flourished, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation between the two peoples. Educational exchanges have played a crucial role in strengthening ties, with numerous scholarships and exchange programs facilitating academic collaboration and cultural immersion. Cultural events, such as art exhibitions, film screenings and literary exchanges, have also contributed to deepening the cultural bonds between the two countries.
During times of crisis, the China-Bangladesh friendship has shone brightest, demonstrating the true essence of the adage, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” During COVID-19 pandemic, China provided Bangladesh with significant medical supplies, including ventilators, testing kits, and Personal Protective Equipment(PPE). China also shared its expertise in pandemic prevention and control, sending medical teams to Bangladesh to assist in the fight against the virus.
China has consistently offered generous scholarship programs to Bangladeshi students, enabling them to pursue higher education in various disciplines, including engineering, medicine, and business. These scholarships have not only provided financial support but have also opened doors to world-class academic opportunities, fostering a generation of Bangladeshi professionals with expertise in diverse fields. Similarly, Bangladesh has also extended scholarships to Chinese students, encouraging them to study in Bangladesh and gain insights into the country’s culture, history and development. These scholarships have facilitated cultural exchange, promoting mutual understanding and appreciation between the two peoples.
BUET, a leading institution of higher learning in Bangladesh, and Tsinghua University, a renowned university in China, have forged a strong partnership, facilitating student exchange programs, joint research projects, and faculty collaborations. This collaboration has opened up new avenues for academic excellence and innovation in both countries.
The China-Bangladesh friendship has not only benefited the two nations directly but has also contributed to regional peace and stability. China and Bangladesh have worked together to address common challenges such as poverty,climate change and terrorism, promoting regional cooperation and development. Their partnership has served as a model of South-South cooperation, demonstrating the potential for developing nations to collaborate effectively for mutual benefit.
As China and Bangladesh continue to grow and develop, their friendship is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the future of the region. Their shared commitment to cooperation, mutual respect and understanding will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for both nations and for the region as a whole. The China-Bangladesh friendship stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even amidst the complexities of the modern world, true friendship can prevail, bridging the divides of geography, politics and economics.
Reference :
- Ambassador Yao Wen attends Inauguration Ceremony of Chinese Economic and Idustrial Zone. (n.d.). RTV Online. https://www.rtvonline.com/english/economy/12485/Ambassador-Yao-Wen-Attends-Inauguration-Ceremony-of-Chinese%E2%80%82Economic%E2%80%82and%E2%80%82Idustrial%E2%80%82Zone
- Figure 7. Bilingual (Chinese & English) sign of Confucius institute. (n.d.). ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Bilingual-Chinese-English-sign-of-Confucius-institute_fig7_346451074
Writer: Anisha Meridha
Institution: BRAC University