Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced on Tuesday that her country will carefully assess proposals from both India and China for a significant project on the Teesta River, ultimately selecting the one most advantageous to Bangladesh.
Hasina's remarks followed her recent visit to India, which she described as highly productive, highlighting its role in strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
"We have received proposals from both China and India regarding the Teesta project. We will evaluate each proposal based on its benefits and alignment with our national interests," stated the 76-year-old leader during a media conference.
When questioned about her preference between the Indian and Chinese proposals, Hasina emphasized Bangladesh's approach to international relationships based on developmental needs and mutual benefits.
"We consider factors such as project suitability, our capacity to manage associated loans, expected returns on investment, and how the project will benefit our citizens," she explained.
China has conducted a physical survey for the project, while India has expressed readiness to undertake further studies on its implementation.
However, India has reservations about Chinese involvement near its strategic Siliguri Corridor, a concern acknowledged by Bangladesh's foreign ministry.
In 2020, China proposed extensive dredging and infrastructure work on the Teesta River independently of Indian participation, prompting Bangladesh to temporarily suspend the billion-dollar project amid potential complications in India-Bangladesh relations.
The Teesta water-sharing agreement has long been a contentious issue between Bangladesh and India, with ongoing discussions since the Awami League government's return to power in 2009.
Hasina highlighted Bangladesh's interest in resolving the water-sharing issue through joint efforts with India.
"India has agreed to collaborate with us on the Teesta project. A joint committee will oversee water sharing, river revitalisation, agricultural use, and navigation enhancement," she stated.
The discussion on water management includes dredging, embankment construction, and conservation measures, with plans for a technical team collaboration after the 1996 Ganges water treaty expires in 2026.
Attempts to finalise the Teesta Agreement during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Bangladesh in 2011 were hindered by the opposition from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Despite obstacles, Bangladesh and India have agreed in principle to channel Teesta waters for irrigation in Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts, as reported by Indian media.
Responding to queries about Banerjee's objections to water-sharing agreements, Hasina refrained from comment, citing the issue as India's internal matter.
She pressed her positive relations with Indian political leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Banerjee.
Regarding Bangladesh's foreign policy towards India and China, Hasina reiterated her government's stance of maintaining friendly relations with all nations.
"Friendship to all, malice to none remains the cornerstone of our foreign policy," she affirmed.
Reflecting on her recent visit to India and plans for an upcoming visit to China, Hasina highlighted the importance of balanced international relations for Bangladesh's development.
"We recognise India's historical role in our independence struggle while acknowledging China's developmental successes," she remarked.
Hasina dismissed concerns about rail connectivity with India, stressing its importance for regional trade and socio-economic development.
"Bangladesh is an independent nation, liberated through our own efforts. Allegations about selling our sovereignty are baseless and unfounded," she asserted.
The premier said Bangladesh is an independent country and “we liberated the country through the Liberation War”.
She said everyone should keep in mind that India was the only force in the world which left a country after helping in its liberation and referred to the American troops of allied forces which were still staying in Japan and Russian troops in Germany.
"Even then, some talk about the rail issue that Bangladesh will be sold to India. How do they say this? Those who talk like this are themselves sold to India," she said.
They criticise India publicly and flatter secretly, she added.
"Look at Europe where there are no borders. Is one country selling itself to another country there? …will we keep our doors shut in Bangladesh?" she added.
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