China Reaffirms Strong Bangladesh Cooperation, Rebuffs External Interference

China Affirms Unwavering Partnership with Bangladesh

China has unequivocally stated its commitment to deepening cooperation with Bangladesh across all sectors, asserting that any attempts to undermine their robust bilateral relationship are 'doomed to fail'. This strong affirmation from Beijing follows recent remarks made by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T. Christensen, expressing concerns over China's growing influence in South Asia. The statements were made by Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, who also signaled strong support for the new government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

Beijing Rejects US Envoy's Remarks as 'Irresponsible'

The diplomatic exchange began when US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen, on January 22 or 23, 2026, voiced concerns regarding 'broader Chinese influence in South Asia'. He indicated that the United States was committed to working with the Bangladeshi government to communicate the 'risks of certain types of engagement with China'. In response, the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, through its spokesperson, strongly refuted these remarks, labeling them as 'irresponsible and utterly unfounded'. The embassy further stated that such comments 'confuse right and wrong' and are 'completely driven by ulterior motives'. Ambassador Yao Wen reiterated that China-Bangladesh cooperation is a matter solely between the two nations and their peoples, and 'brooks no interference or finger-pointing from the US side'.

Deepening Economic and Strategic Ties

The relationship between China and Bangladesh has been characterized by significant economic and strategic cooperation. China has consistently been Bangladesh's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years and is a major investor in the country. Bilateral trade has seen substantial growth, with China granting duty-free access to a large percentage of Bangladeshi products. This partnership extends to various infrastructure projects, notably under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina previously lauded for opening new development avenues for Bangladesh. Cooperation areas include:

• Job creation
• Investment
• Education and health sectors
• Long-term projects such as the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project

Ambassador Yao Wen emphasized that China supports Bangladesh's 'Bangladesh First' policy and its efforts to play a more prominent role in international affairs, viewing the relationship as a 'comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership'.

Mutual Respect and Non-Interference as Cornerstones

China has consistently highlighted that its policy towards Bangladesh is founded on friendship, mutual respect, and shared development goals. The Chinese Embassy stressed that China-Bangladesh relations, and China's ties with other South Asian countries, are not directed at any third party and will not be influenced by external forces. Ambassador Yao Wen underscored that the cooperation between the two nations benefits the people of the region and is widely supported. He concluded that 'any attempt to interfere in or obstruct these relations is doomed to fail', reinforcing Beijing's stance on the sovereignty and independence of its bilateral partnerships.