China-Bangladesh Friendship: A friend in need is a friend indeed- Md Fahim Shahriar

The connection and reciprocal assistance that exists between China and Bangladesh exemplifies the age-old proverb, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” These two countries’ historical relations have grown tremendously, establishing a strong collaboration across several fields. This friendship has withstood adversity, provided unflinching support in times of need, and grown stronger over time through shared aims and teamwork. To comprehend the breadth and significance of this relationship, one must first investigate its historical beginnings. Bangladesh and China established diplomatic relations in 1975, and bilateral ties have grown steadily since then. Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s historic visit to China in 1999 was a watershed occasion, laying the groundwork for comprehensive collaboration (1).

Fig.1. Chinese president meets Bangladeshi PM [Ref: Chinese president meets Bangladeshi PM – Xinhua | English.news.cn [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-07/05/c_138202551.htm]

Economic cooperation is the bedrock of the China-Bangladesh alliance. China has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s most important economic partners, investing in infrastructure, electricity, and telecommunications. Through programs such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-Bangladesh partnership has made significant development. In response, Bangladesh has welcomed these investments, utilizing them to support its own economic development.

The development of infrastructure projects such as the Padma Bridge and the Payra Power Plant, which symbolizes China’s commitment to Bangladesh’s infrastructure expansion, is one of the most prominent partnerships. These projects not only help economic development, but they also improve connectivity and regional trade opportunities (2).

Fig.2. China to strengthen cooperation with Bangladesh in beating pandemic, alleviating poverty [China, Bangladesh “should make relations model of friendship” | Nation | China Daily [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: https://www.chinadailyhk.com/article/329593]

 

Furthermore, via numerous aid programs, technological transfers, and capacity-building initiatives, China has played an important role in Bangladesh’s development goal. China’s aid at Bangladesh’s crucial periods, such as natural disasters and humanitarian crises, demonstrates the depth of their friendship. For example, during the Rohingya refugee crisis, China provided enormous assistance to Bangladesh, demonstrating solidarity and empathy in the face of suffering.

Cultural and people-to-people interactions between China and Bangladesh strengthen their relationship. Scholarships, cultural exchanges, and collaboration in a variety of disciplines have all contributed to a better understanding and respect of one another’s heritage and ideals. This cultural synergy acts as a bridge, strengthening links between inhabitants of both countries (3).

The strategic collaboration between China and Bangladesh goes beyond bilateral cooperation and has regional and international implications. Both nations have worked closely together in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations, forging similar viewpoints on a wide range of global problems such as climate change and sustainable development.

However, the China-Bangladesh friendship, like any other, is fraught with difficulties. The asymmetric structure of the cooperation, worries about debt sustainability, and geopolitical intricacies all provide challenges that must be carefully navigated. Maintaining a balance between economic cooperation and national interests is vital for both countries. As with any international relationship, the friendship between China and Bangladesh has piqued the interest and scrutiny of global parties. Concerns about debt-trap diplomacy, geopolitical repercussions, and the consequences of Chinese investments in vital industries in Bangladesh have sparked concerns and debates. To overcome these issues, both countries must assure openness, mutual respect, and long-term practises in their interactions. A strong and mutually productive partnership requires clear communication, fair discussions, and a focus on shared rewards (4).

Finally, the relationship between China and Bangladesh exemplifies the long-lasting connections formed through shared experiences, mutual respect, and unflinching support. This partnership, marked by economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and strategic collaboration, reflects the saying “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Moving forward, maintaining this connection involves ongoing communication, a focus on similar interests, and a commitment to overcoming obstacles together. The China-Bangladesh alliance serves as an example of collaboration, solidarity, and resilience as both countries manage the difficulties of the global scene (5).

 

References:

  1. CHINA BANGLADESH FRIENDSHIP CENTER- 中孟友好中心 – CBFC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: https://www.chinabangladesh.org/
  2. China, Bangladesh “should make relations model of friendship” | Nation | China Daily [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: https://www.chinadailyhk.com/article/329593
  3. Xi calls for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China, Bangladesh-Xinhua [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: https://english.news.cn/20230824/de44052748a64cf6b0c77b951ba9db5e/c.html
  4. China and Bangladesh [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: http://bd.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zmgx/gxgk/201306/t20130626_1781169.htm
  5. China and Bangladesh | The Daily Star [Internet]. [cited 2023 Dec 5]. Available from: https://www.thedailystar.net/tags/china-and-bangladesh

Writer: Md Fahim Shahriar
Institution: China Pharmaceutical University

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The China Bangladesh Friendship Center (CBFC) does not accept liability for any information contained in this essay, as it is uploaded in its original form by the participant. The CBFC has not made any alterations to the capitalization or formatting of the content. Thank you."

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