Historically, Bengal has always been a pivotal link between South Asia and East Asia, primarily due to its strategic geo-economic position. With ancient trade routes connecting Bengal to China both by land and sea, this region, once encompassing areas like Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, the Seven Sisters of Northeast India, and Burma, has long served as a bridge between the East and West. In recent times, Bangladesh, the successor of Bengal, is once again finding itself at the center of global connectivity due to its geographical significance—particularly in the eyes of China.
China, a nation deeply rooted in trade, is now more determined than ever to expand its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), reviving the historical Silk Road with Bangladesh as a key node. However, Bangladesh’s strategic relations with China have been a topic of complex deliberation, especially during Sheikh Hasina’s administration, which faced the dilemma of balancing ties between China and its neighboring giant, India.
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