The Role of Beijing in Assisting Sheikh Hasina Government

_{Image Credit: The Telegraph Online}

In a recent development, Beijing has outpaced New Delhi in standing alongside the government led by Sheikh Hasina during its confrontation with the United States. This comes after the US announced a new visa policy aimed at ensuring free and fair elections in Bangladesh. Prime Minister Hasina received public appreciation from a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson for her anti-US comments. Wang Wenbin, the spokesperson, criticized the US for interfering in the internal affairs of Bangladesh and other developing countries while ignoring its own issues of racial discrimination, gun violence, and drug proliferation.

The Chinese endorsement assumes significance as the Hasina regime seeks support from neighboring superpowers, particularly after facing the new visa rule and earlier sanctions on its elite paramilitary force. Dhaka anticipates backing from both China and India ahead of the upcoming general elections. With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled state visit to the US, there is speculation about whether he will address the new visa policy issue with the Biden administration, as developments in Bangladesh directly impact India.

While New Delhi has refrained from issuing an official reaction to the US visa threat, sources suggest that India’s concerns regarding the US policy toward Bangladesh are likely to be discussed during Modi’s visit. Although the Indian foreign policy establishment considers the new visa policy unfavorable to Hasina, a trusted ally, Beijing’s support for her remarks against the US further complicates the equation.

Sheikh Hasina responded to the new visa policy by expressing resilience and stating that the country is unconcerned about such policies and sanctions. She also hinted at diversifying alliances by referring to “other oceans and other continents” and the possibility of making friends with them. The ruling Awami League sees China’s statement as an endorsement for Hasina and emphasizes their firm support for Bangladesh’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

The Chinese gesture of appreciation for Hasina’s stance has been widely circulated, creating discussions and analysis in the media. While it may seem advantageous for India to have a stable position for Hasina, the growing Chinese influence in the equation raises concerns in New Delhi. Despite India’s reservations, the Chinese support during challenging times has prompted Dhaka to reciprocate the gesture.

Re-reported from the story originally published in Telegraph Online