China Endorses Bangladesh's BRICS and SCO Aspirations
China has publicly endorsed Bangladesh's bid to join BRICS and its application to become a partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The announcement came in a joint communique issued after Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's five-day visit to China, during which he held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
Teesta River Project Not Targeted at India, Says Beijing
China reaffirmed its support for the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project, asserting that the cooperation is "not targeted at any third party" amid concerns in India. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that Beijing is ready to support what he described as a livelihood project for Bangladesh. "China-Bangladesh cooperation does not target any third party and should be free from third-party influence," Guo said at a media briefing.
Elevated Partnership and Strategic Dialogue
The two sides agreed to elevate their Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership to a "China-Bangladesh community with a shared future in the new era." They will strengthen defence ties, establish a strategic dialogue mechanism between their foreign ministers, and explore a "2+2" dialogue involving diplomatic and defence officials.
Expanded Cooperation in Trade, Connectivity, and Infrastructure
China and Bangladesh agreed to expand cooperation in trade, connectivity, green energy, water resources, disaster management, and industrial development. Specific projects include the modernisation of Mongla Port and development of the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chattogram.
Dhaka Reiterates One China Policy
Bangladesh reiterated its commitment to the "One China" policy, while Beijing reaffirmed support for Bangladesh's sovereignty and pledged to support the country's greater role in multilateral institutions, including BRICS and the SCO.
