MARK Twain once said, ‘The secret of getting ahead is getting started.’ He emphasises the fundamental truth that progress begins with action — without taking the first step, one cannot move forward or achieve anything. This sentiment resonates with Bangladesh’s current diplomatic strategy as Dr Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh, prepares for a crucial visit to China on March 26. More than a routine diplomatic engagement, this visit signals a strategic move to bolster Bangladesh’s economy and enhance its international standing in a rapidly shifting global order. As power dynamics evolve, the visit highlights Bangladesh’s ambition to establish itself as a formidable regional economic force. According to his press secretary, Shafiqul Alam, the trip is poised to play a decisive role in shaping the country’s economic trajectory and international alliances.
A key focus of Yunus’s visit is strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in manufacturing and industrial development. Bangladesh’s aspiration to emerge as a global manufacturing hub necessitates robust partnerships. China — renowned for its infrastructure expertise, technological advancements, and investment capabilities — is a critical ally in this endeavour. A recent case in point is the announcement by Chinese solar giant Longi to establish a manufacturing facility in Bangladesh, a development confirmed by Chinese ambassador Yao Wen. This move not only reflects China’s confidence in Bangladesh’s industrial potential but also marks a significant shift in regional economic partnerships.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative has already played a crucial role in enhancing Bangladesh’s infrastructure, with substantial investments in highways, bridges, and energy projects. Strengthening these ties could integrate Bangladesh more deeply into global supply chains, attract greater foreign direct investment, and accelerate industrial growth. However, such cooperation must be approached with caution. Bangladesh must ensure that any new agreements prioritise sustainable investment over excessive debt accumulation — a concern that has troubled several other Belt and Road Initiative participants. The challenge lies in leveraging China’s economic might without falling into financial dependency.
Dr Yunus’s diplomatic engagement with China signals a broader recalibration of Bangladesh’s foreign policy. Historically, India has been Dhaka’s dominant regional partner, but the growing outreach to Beijing suggests a conscious effort to diversify diplomatic and economic engagements. This shift is not merely an economic calculation but a strategic necessity — Bangladesh must balance its relationships to counter regional hegemonies and expand its strategic options in an increasingly complex global landscape.
At the same time, Bangladesh must navigate its relationships with western powers with prudence. The United States and the European Union remain key economic partners, and an overt tilt toward China could provoke scrutiny or economic consequences. Additionally, Bangladesh’s diplomatic stance on pressing regional issues — most notably the Rohingya crisis — will be critical. Given China’s significant influence over Myanmar, Dr Yunus is expected to push Beijing to adopt a more proactive role in facilitating the safe and sustainable repatriation of displaced Rohingya refugees, an issue that remains a source of international concern.
A major highlight of Dr Yunus’s visit will be his address at the Boao Forum for Asia on March 27, an event that convenes influential policymakers and business leaders from around the world. According to his press secretary, this platform presents an opportunity to position Bangladesh as an emerging economic player. Additionally, scheduled meetings with CEOs of multinational corporations could further reinforce Bangladesh’s appeal as an attractive investment destination.
Perhaps the most consequential aspect of the visit will be the high-level bilateral meeting between Dr Yunus and Chinese president Xi Jinping in Beijing on March 28. According to reports from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions will cover a range of critical bilateral issues, shaping the future trajectory of Bangladesh-China relations.
Beyond economic and political engagements, defence cooperation remains an integral facet of the bilateral relationship. China is Bangladesh’s primary supplier of military equipment across the army, navy, and air force. As Bangladesh seeks to modernise its defence capabilities, deeper collaboration in military procurement and technology transfer could be on the table. The recent transfer of light military equipment from China indicates this growing partnership. However, such developments inevitably raise questions about Bangladesh’s broader strategic alignment, particularly in the context of regional security rivalries.
Dr Yunus’s visit to China is not merely a diplomatic formality; it is a calculated move that reflects Bangladesh’s aspirations for the future. Strengthening economic and political ties with China is a step towards fostering industrial growth and increasing regional influence. However, Bangladesh must tread carefully — leveraging Chinese investment without overreliance and expanding diplomatic ties without alienating western allies, and ensuring that economic gains translate into sustainable, long-term growth rather than financial vulnerabilities.
As Bangladesh stands at a crossroads of economic transformation and geopolitical repositioning, the outcomes of this visit will have far-reaching implications. The success of Dr Yunus’s diplomatic outreach will not only redefine Bangladesh-China relations but also shape the country’s trajectory within the evolving landscape of global power dynamics.
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Dr Md Momtazur Rahman is a professor of English and registrar at the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology, Dhaka.
