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Bangladesh has engaged both India and China as they fulfill its aspirations for development without raising the apprehensions of either. High-level visits between Bangladesh and India and the resolution of some of the long pending issues have removed some earlier distrust, greatly institutionalizing the relationship between the two. India opposes the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while Bangladesh is a participant. China shares a robust relationship with the military of Bangladesh, while security cooperation between India and Bangladesh is nascent, involving capacity building and cooperation to meet non-traditional security challenges. Bangladesh has kept the sensitivities of the two countries in mind as it engages with both. Therefore, it has built its energy and infrastructure with the largest credit line ever offered by India while also engaging with China to invest massively in infrastructure projects. Bangladesh is the only country in South Asia to have profited from relations with both India and China in such a way. In this study, four sectors have been selected in which Bangladesh has engaged both countries and benefitted immeasurably.
Keywords: India; China; Bangladesh; foreign policy.
South Asia is undergoing a major geopolitical transformation. Democratic transition has fueled aspirations for sustainable economic growth that can bridge the gap between rich and poor as well as create employment opportunities for the growing number of educated youths in the region. Economic growth has also necessitated massive investment into infrastructure that is expected to fuel a market-based economy and generate revenue to sustain growth in developing countries. Due to its ability to fund large infrastructure projects, China with its deep pockets has increased its presence in South Asia and offered generous investment without political strings. It is funding massive infrastructure projects such as airports and ports that can greatly contribute to economic growth. For the first time, India's absolute primacy in South Asia is being challenged as China entrenches its position through huge investment with strategic intent. Yet, as India's influence in the politics of its neighborhood remains immense, it therefore continues to remain a potent player. At the same time, India's ability to influence the domestic politics of its neighbors in favor of the opposition if it wishes so has exacerbated the anxiety of ruling regimes and fueled a wave of regime-instigated...