Editor,
Apropos of the editorial “Regional power play” (ST August 12, 2024), the power dynamics in South Asia are heavily influenced by the major rivalries between China, India and the United States of America. This is a case of the key players and their potential benefits. China has been increasing its presence and influence in almost every South Asian country and the Indian Ocean region. This expansion is part of its One Belt One Road initiative which aims to enhance trade routes and infrastructure. China’s growing influence could provide it with significant strategic and economic advantages in the region. India as a major regional power is actively working to counter China’s influence. India’s strategic partnerships, such as those with the United States and Japan, aim to bolster its position in South Asia. India’s focus on regional connectivity projects and defence collaborations could enhance its influence and security. The United States of America is also a key player, particularly in its efforts to counter China’s rise. By strengthening alliances with countries like India and engaging in regional security initiatives, the US aims to maintain a balance of power in the region which is very essential. Smaller countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan may benefit by leveraging the competition between these major powers. They can seek investment, aid, and strategic partnerships from multiple sources, thereby enhancing their own development and security. The interplay between these major powers will shape the geopolitical landscape of South Asia, with each player seeking to maximize its own benefits while managing rivalries and alliances.
India and Bangladesh share a multifaceted relationship characterised by strong historical, cultural and economic ties. Some of the key aspects of their relationship is that India is one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners. The two countries have signed several agreements to enhance trade and investment, including the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA). India has also extended lines of credit to Bangladesh for various infrastructure projects. Both countries collaborate closely on security issues, including counter-terrorism and border management. They have worked together to address cross-border crime and improve border infrastructure. The sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, is a significant issue. While there have been challenges, both countries continue to engage in dialogue to find mutually beneficial solutions.
India and Bangladesh are working on several connectivity projects to enhance regional integration. These include road, rail and maritime links that facilitate trade and people-to-people exchanges. The cultural and historical connections between the two countries are strong. There are numerous cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties are reinforced through tourism, education and other forms of interaction. The diplomatic relationship between the two countries is generally positive, with regular high-level visits and dialogues. Both countries aim to strengthen their partnership through various bilateral mechanisms. Overall, India’s position vis-à-vis Bangladesh is one of cooperation and partnership, with both countries working together to address common challenges and enhancing their bilateral relationship.
The regional power play in South Asia, particularly the dynamics involving China, India and the United States, can indeed impact India-Bangladesh relations. Few ways this might happen: As China continues to invest heavily in South Asia through its One Belt One Road Initiative, Bangladesh has become a significant recipient of Chinese investments. This could lead to a shift in economic dependencies and influence, potentially affecting India’s economic ties with Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh have a strong strategic partnership, but the growing influence of China in Bangladesh could create a complex dynamic. India may need to enhance its diplomatic and strategic efforts to maintain its influence and ensure that Bangladesh remains a close ally.
The regional power play could also impact security cooperation. India and Bangladesh have collaborated on counter-terrorism and border management, but increasing Chinese presence in the region might necessitate a recalibration of security strategies. Both India and China are involved in infrastructure projects in Bangladesh. The competition between these two major powers could influence the pace and nature of these projects, potentially benefiting Bangladesh but also creating a balancing act for Dhaka. The broader geopolitical context might lead to more nuanced diplomatic engagements. Bangladesh will likely continue to balance its relationships with both India and China, seeking to maximize benefits from both while maintaining its sovereignty and strategic interests. While the regional power play presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for India and Bangladesh to strengthen their bilateral relationship through enhanced cooperation and strategic dialogue.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
Saint Martin Island: Power games along NE India
Editor,
Military imperatives are shaping the current world order. The exit of the American might from Afghanistan was the beginning of private armies or contractors taking over policy making and conducting the business of war for resources. Shifting the orbit towards Southeast Asia along the Bay of Bengal, a recent news clipping from ‘The Print’ states ‘St Martin’s in Bangladesh — the tiny island that Hasina has accused US of wanting and its importance,’ just shows how important strategic choke points are for US interests. A tourist spot could change the fulcrum of politics and geo-economics if they become SIGINT or listening stations keeping Myanmar which is blessed with rich reserves of jade, rubies and other gemstones or the One Belt One Road initiative by the Chinese within proximity. David Vine, in his book Base Nation, describes why the US military, through its expansion of bases, is a threat to the entire world.
These are few developments over the Northeastern part of where our porous borders are well connected and the staging ground for geopolitical rivalry. In 2023, Bangladesh, through a Russian company Rosatom, received a shipment of uranium for its $12.65 billion Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, showing how diplomatic relationships can stretch further.
In the past few years, we had a share of luck over insurgency not gaining a foothold in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura as a result of Bangladesh cooperation, but as the world becomes flatter, geography can certainly determine our fate.
Yours etc.,
Christopher Gatphoh,
Shillong-10
Correction:
In the article ‘Political Upheaval in Bangladesh’ By H. Srikanth (ST Aug 13, 2024) in the first sentence of the second paragraph, ‘Bangladesh emerged as an independent nation state in 1971 after several years of popular struggle against Pakistan…… the year 1971 was written as 1917 through oversight. The error is regretted.