Bangladesh seeks Chinese support for Teesta restoration project

Dhaka: Tariq Rehman-led Bangladesh government has sought China’s “participation and support” for the Teesta restoration project, a move that is likely to cast a pall on New Delhi’s ties with Dhaka as Dhaka presses India’s efforts to implement the 2011 Teesta water-sharing treaty, which was blocked by outgoing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Dhaka has been demanding a larger share of Teesta waters under the deal, but the deal is pending for several reasons, including lack of coordination between the Center and Bangladesh. Many in Bangladesh hope there will be an opportunity to revisit the treaty with the centrally-positioned Bharatiya Janata Party forming a government in Bengal soon. After meeting with Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Rahman on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China supports the new Bangladesh government in maintaining unity and stability, revitalizing economic development, and improving people’s well-being. Government officials said the two sides discussed issues related to the Integrated Teesta River Management and Restoration Project. The Teesta River Integrated Management and Restoration Project is a major initiative launched in Dhaka to dredge, embank and manage the river that flows through Sikkim and Bengal in India and then into Bangladesh, primarily for flood control and irrigation. Wang Yi did not elaborate, but said that China is willing to continue to provide support and assistance to Bangladesh within its capacity. China is willing to promote the alignment of high-quality joint construction of the “Belt and Road Initiative” with Bangladesh’s national development strategy, and deepen cooperation in traditional fields such as economy and trade, investment, infrastructure, water conservancy, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges. Wang said China is also considering expanding cooperation in emerging industries such as green development and digital economy. Khalil said that China has always been Bangladesh’s trustworthy and indispensable friend and partner.