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Published : 29 Oct 2025, 11:28 PM
China wants to help Bangladesh become “more independent and stronger in its own capacity”, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has said, stressing that there is no scope for any third country to “interfere” in Dhaka-Beijing relations.
The remarks came on Wednesday during a question-and-answer session at a discussion in Dhaka, referring to recent comments by Brent Christensen, the United States’ ambassador-designate to Bangladesh.
Yao said, “Every decision is made by Bangladesh, completely without dictation of any foreign elements. So that is my understanding.
“China’s policy is to support Bangladesh to be more independent, more powerful in its own capacity, so you are not necessarily to listen to, dictated by any foreign countries. So that is our policy. We support Bangladesh.”
During a Senate hearing on Oct 23, Christensen said he would work with the Bangladeshi government and military to “make clear the risks” of engagement with China and its military, referring to projects such as the “renovation” of Bangladesh’s submarine base and the reported purchase of 20 Chinese fighter jets.
“I share your concern about Chinese influence across South Asia,” Christensen told the hearing, adding that if confirmed, he would “engage with the Bangladesh government and military to make clear the risks of Chinese activities, particularly in the maritime sector and key infrastructure.”
He also said he would promote deeper US–Bangladesh defence cooperation as “a counterbalance”.
Asked about these comments at the “Bangladesh-China Relations: The Way Forward” discussion at the Foreign Service Academy, organised by the Association of Former Ambassadors (AOFA), Yao reaffirmed Beijing’s stance of non-interference and mutual respect.
Earlier in his written remarks, Yao said: “Bangladesh is now standing at a crucial stage of democratic transition and national rejuvenation. China sincerely wishes Bangladesh a smooth general election, social stability, and improved livelihoods for its people.”
He added that China stands ready to work with Bangladesh “to uphold a people-centred development philosophy, carry forward the spirit of independence and self-reliance, and jointly explore a path to modernization that suits our respective national realities and keeps pace with the trends of our times.”
Praising Bangladesh’s political engagement, Yao said: “We have observed that the people of Bangladesh are vibrantly advancing their democratic processes and robustly contributing ideas for the democratic transition. They are also exploring ways to enhance public participation in governance and ensure the benefits of development are widely shared.”
He added, “China stands ready to strengthen exchanges with Bangladesh on governance theories and experiences, working together to explore pathways of democratic governance that suit our respective national conditions, and make democracy a true driver for development.”
