In a significant statement today, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, affirmed that the decision regarding any projects involving the Teesta river lies solely with Bangladesh. His comments were made during a talk at the Jatiya Press Club organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB).
Ambassador Yao emphasized the sovereignty of Bangladesh over the Teesta, stating, “The Teesta river is within the territory of Bangladesh. So it is your river. Any project regarding the Teesta River is for Bangladesh to decide upon. That decision must be respected by all of us.”
This statement comes ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s anticipated visit to China next week, where bilateral discussions are expected to cover a range of topics including infrastructure, trade, and regional development.
The ambassador also addressed queries about the potential for India and China to collaborate on the Teesta River Management project. He noted that while China was open to cooperation, the ultimate decision would rest with Bangladesh, underscoring the absence of any tension between India and China over the matter.
The discussions in China are also set to focus on enhancing cooperation in the financial sector, digital economy, education, and media, as well as the development of Bangladesh’s southern region. Specific agreements to be signed during the visit were not disclosed by the ambassador at this time.
Yao’s comments underline the diplomatic sensitivity and the importance of Bangladesh’s autonomy in managing its natural resources amidst regional interests.