Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has taken a unique diplomatic approach by initiating ‘mango diplomacy’ to strengthen relations with China. During a recent meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, Yunus announced his plan to personally send a basket of fresh mangoes to President Xi Jinping, symbolizing goodwill between the two nations.
Bangladesh’s Strategic Shift Toward China
Yunus’ diplomatic outreach follows his official visit to China last month, where he engaged in discussions on economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and trade expansion. His meeting with Chinese officials comes at a time when India-Bangladesh relations have faced tensions, particularly over water-sharing agreements and trade policies.
50-Year Water Sharing Plan Underway
One of the key outcomes of Yunus’ engagement with China is the proposal for a 50-year water-sharing agreement, aimed at jointly managing transboundary rivers. The plan is expected to address water security concerns, particularly regarding the Teesta River, which has been a longstanding issue between Bangladesh and India.
Geopolitical Implications
Experts believe Bangladesh’s closer ties with China could signal a strategic shift in South Asia’s geopolitical landscape. While Bangladesh has historically maintained strong relations with India, Yunus’ recent diplomatic efforts suggest a rebalancing of alliances, with China emerging as a key partner in trade and infrastructure development.
