DHAKA: America is worried about China’s increasing presence in South Asia and is planning to supply Bangladesh’s subsequent authorities US and allied defence methods as alternate options to Chinese language {hardware}, Washington’s ambassador to Dhaka advised Reuters.
Bangladesh votes in a general election on Thursday (Feb 12) after a Gen Z-led rebellion toppled India-allied premier Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. She has since taken refuge in New Delhi, permitting China to deepen its affect in Bangladesh as India’s presence wanes.
China not too long ago signed a defence settlement with Bangladesh to construct a drone manufacturing facility close to the India border, worrying overseas diplomats. Bangladesh can also be in talks with Pakistan to purchase JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, a multi-role fight plane collectively developed with China.
“The US is worried about rising Chinese language affect in South Asia and is dedicated to working intently with the Bangladeshi authorities to obviously talk the dangers of sure kinds of engagement with China,” US Ambassador Brent T Christensen stated in an interview on Tuesday.
“The US gives a variety of choices to assist Bangladesh meet its navy functionality wants, together with US methods and people from allied companions, to supply alternate options to Chinese language methods,” he stated with out providing additional particulars.
The Chinese language overseas ministry didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.
Christensen additionally stated that US President Donald Trump’s administration would “wish to see a very good relationship between Bangladesh and India to help stability within the area”.
New Delhi-Dhaka relations have nosedived since Hasina fled, badly affecting visa providers and cricket ties between the 2 neighbours.
