Bilateral Relations
Bangladesh maintains diplomatic relations with a wide range of countries, balancing between major global powers and regional neighbors.
a) India
India played a crucial role in the independence of Bangladesh, providing military, economic, and diplomatic support during the 1971 Liberation War. Today, India and Bangladesh share a 4,096-km border, making it one of the longest land borders in the world. Their relationship is generally positive, with cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, counter-terrorism, and connectivity projects like rail, road, and waterways. However, occasional disputes arise, such as those related to water sharing (Teesta River) and border security.
b) China
Bangladesh and China enjoy a strong and growing relationship. China is Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a significant source of infrastructure investment, including projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China is also a key supplier of military equipment to Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh balances this relationship with its ties to India and the U.S.
c) United States
The U.S. is an important partner for Bangladesh in terms of trade, investment, and development assistance. Bangladesh exports a large volume of textiles to the U.S., making it a vital trade partner. The two countries also cooperate in areas like counter-terrorism, regional security, and disaster response. However, concerns over human rights and governance have sometimes led to criticism from the U.S.
d) Pakistan
Relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan have been strained since the 1971 Liberation War. Issues like Pakistan’s reluctance to fully acknowledge the atrocities committed during the war, and the repatriation of stranded Pakistanis (Biharis) in Bangladesh, continue to affect bilateral ties. Despite these challenges, diplomatic and trade relations exist, albeit on a limited scale.
e) Myanmar
Bangladesh and Myanmar share a border, and their relationship has been significantly affected by the Rohingya refugee crisis. Since 2017, more than a million Rohingya refugees have fled from Myanmar to Bangladesh due to persecution by the Myanmar military. This has strained relations, although both countries have engaged in discussions about repatriation and regional security.