Washington’s Interference in Dhaka–Beijing Relations Will Not Be Tolerated

The Chinese Embassy in Dhaka has issued a strong response, directly labeling the United States’ remarks on bilateral cooperation between Dhaka and Beijing as “irresponsible” and “groundless.” China has made it clear that Bangladesh–China relations are an internal matter between the two countries and that interference by any third party will not be tolerated.

On Thursday, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy said in an official statement that the recent remarks made by newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, were contrary to diplomatic etiquette. The statement said that such comments, driven by hidden motives, deliberately blur right and wrong and distort the positive reality of bilateral cooperation.

Earlier on Wednesday afternoon, speaking to journalists, the U.S. Ambassador said that the United States is concerned about China’s growing influence in South Asia. He stated that maintaining communication with the Bangladesh government and clearly outlining the “risks” of relations with China is part of his diplomatic priorities.

In response to these remarks, the Chinese Embassy recalled that over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Bangladesh and China have always cooperated on the principles of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. This cooperation has received broad support from the people of both countries and has delivered tangible benefits in infrastructure, trade, and development sectors.

The statement further said that Bangladesh–China relations are not an arena for geopolitical competition; rather, they are a partnership built in the interests of the development of the two peoples and regional stability. Interference or finger-pointing by the United States in this regard is unacceptable.

The Chinese Embassy urged the United States to be more mindful of its diplomatic responsibilities and to play a constructive role in supporting Bangladesh’s stability and regional development.

This exchange of statements clearly highlights that the pressure of strategic competition between Washington and Beijing over influence in South Asia is becoming increasingly visible on Bangladesh’s diplomacy.