CHINA-BANGLADESH RELATIONS AFTER BELT ROAD INITIATIVE: IMPACTS ON REGIONAL POLITICS
Keywords:
Belt-Road Initiative, China-Bangladesh Relations, South-Asia, Regional Dynamics, Economic Development,, Economic Development, Strategic Balance,, , ConnectivityAbstract
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by China in 2013, has significantly reshaped the regional dynamics of South Asia. Bangladesh, as a key partner in the BRI, has deepened its economic and infrastructural ties with China through a range of development projects, including the construction of roads, ports, power plants and industrial zones. This engagement has brought economic benefits to Bangladesh, notably improved connectivity and increased foreign direct investment. However, it has also influenced regional politics by shifting the strategic balance, particularly with respect to India and other regional actors. China's expanding footprint in Bangladesh has raised concerns about debt dependency, strategic autonomy, and the evolving alliance structures in South Asia. This paper examines the evolving China-Bangladesh relationship under the BRI framework and evaluates its broader implications for regional power dynamics, strategic partnerships, and geopolitical competition especially in light of claims made by the US and other powers that China’s rise is not entirely peaceful. The study concludes that while the BRI presents significant development opportunities for Bangladesh, it simultaneously requires a cautious and strategic balancing act to preserve national interests and ensure regional stability.
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