Yunus’s Bold Pitch to China
During a four-day visit to China (March 26-29), Bangladesh’s interim government chief advisor, Professor Muhammad Yunus, made a striking statement.
He described Bangladesh as the “only guardian of the ocean” for India’s landlocked Northeast region, suggesting it could serve as an extension of China’s economy.
“Seven states of India, called the Seven Sisters, are landlocked. They have no direct access to the ocean,” Yunus said, emphasizing Bangladesh’s strategic role. His remarks, shared widely by the interim government, have raised eyebrows in Delhi.
Also Read: Taiwan Under Siege? China Launches War Drills, Calls President a ‘Parasite’
Why This Matters for India
India’s Northeast has long faced connectivity challenges, relying on the narrow ‘Chicken’s Neck’ corridor in West Bengal.
Over the years, Delhi has worked with Bangladesh to secure transit routes. But Yunus’s comments signal a shift—positioning Beijing, not Delhi, as Dhaka’s preferred partner.
“This opens up huge possibilities for China—build, produce, and market goods through Bangladesh,” Yunus added, highlighting economic opportunities.
A New Layer to India-Bangladesh Ties
The remarks come at a delicate time. India has yet to respond, but Yunus’s push for stronger China-Bangladesh ties adds tension. “Our relationship with China is very strong,” he said, hinting at deeper collaboration.
Next, Yunus will attend the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand, where he has requested a meeting with PM Modi. Whether that happens could signal where Dhaka’s loyalties truly lie.
Also Read: India Reduces Medical Visas for Bangladesh, Giving China a New Opportunity
