China ready to support Bangladesh regarding Teesta project: envoy

Beijing is ready to help Bangladesh implement the Teesta River water management project if Dhaka wants it, the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said today. 

The Chinese ambassador made these remarks in response to a journalist’s query during a press briefing on Bangladesh-China relations held at the Chinese Embassy in Baridhara this afternoon.

He added that the Teesta project should be implemented as soon as possible for the benefit and welfare of the thousands of people living on the banks of this river. But as a sovereign country, it’s up to Bangladesh to decide about the implementation of the project, he said.

He also informed that it was Bangladesh which sought Chinese assistance for the Teesta Project in 2021 by sending a proposal. After evaluating the project, in 2023, China sent a report to the Bangladesh government saying that the project should be revised as there were many unnecessary components.

“But we have yet to get any response from the Bangladesh government since then,” he added.

Speaking about ongoing reform initiatives by the interim government, Yao Wen said it is an internal issue of Bangladesh.

He expressed hope that the reforms would proceed smoothly and that China desires a smooth transition of power.

Regarding medical treatment, the ambassador said that Bangladeshis who wish to receive treatment in China will have access to three top-rated hospitals in Kunming.

He also mentioned that Bangladeshis would be able to obtain visas easily once they apply.

Regarding the Rohingya crisis, the ambassador said that China and Bangladesh share the same stance.

He emphasised that a ceasefire between the Arakan Army and the Myanmar government is a precondition for progress. China wants the smooth repatriation of the Rohingyas.