In a move that could potentially reignite tensions with India, Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is deepening its engagement with China, particularly concerning the Teesta River project. Recent events have raised eyebrows in New Delhi, especially after the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, visited the Teesta project site, located close to India's strategic Siliguri Corridor, also known as the "Chicken's Neck".
The Siliguri Corridor, a narrow strip of land in West Bengal, is a vital link connecting mainland India to its northeastern states. Its strategic importance cannot be overstated, serving as a lifeline for trade, communication, and military logistics for nearly 45 million people.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser for Environment, Forests and Water Resources Ministries in Bangladesh's interim government, accompanied Ambassador Yao during the inspection of the Teesta project site in Rangpur. Hasan emphasized the commitment of both Bangladesh and China to implement the Teesta Master Plan (TMP). She clarified that while China is eager to commence the project, work cannot begin immediately as the scrutiny process is still ongoing.
The Teesta River has been a long-standing point of contention between India and Bangladesh, with disputes over water sharing dating back to the partition of India in 1947. A temporary water-sharing agreement in 1983 allocated 39% of the river's water to India and 36% to Bangladesh, but a permanent treaty has remained elusive. West Bengal's concerns have been a major obstacle to finalizing the agreement.
Bangladesh is seeking a loan of $67 billion from China for the "Comprehensive Management and Restoration of Teesta River Project," also known as the Teesta Mega Project. The project aims to control flooding, reduce riverbank erosion, and increase water flow during the dry season. China has also pledged $400 million for the modernization of the Mongla Port and $350 million for developing a China Industrial Economic Zone in Chittagong.
This growing relationship between Bangladesh and China, particularly concerning the Teesta project, has sparked concerns in India. Some view China's increasing presence in Bangladesh as part of a strategy to encircle India, potentially threatening the Siliguri Corridor.
Adding to the complexity, remarks made by Muhammad Yunus during a visit to China earlier in the year stirred controversy. Yunus referred to India's northeastern states as "landlocked" and suggested that Bangladesh was their "only guardian of the ocean," implying a significant opportunity for China to expand its economic influence through Bangladesh. These statements were perceived by some in India as undermining India's strategic interests and sovereignty over its northeastern region.
Despite these concerns, Bangladesh maintains that its relationship with China is based on mutual trust and shared development goals. China is Bangladesh's largest trading partner and a key development ally, providing significant investment and support for infrastructure projects.
The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of the Teesta project and its impact on regional dynamics. As Bangladesh and China move forward with their plans, India will be closely monitoring the situation, balancing its own strategic interests with the need for cooperative relations with its neighbor.
