China has reacted sharply to comments made by the newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, regarding Beijing’s influence in South Asia, rejecting the remarks as “irresponsible” and “unfounded.”
In an interaction with local media on Wednesday, Ambassador Christensen said the United States had concerns over China’s broader influence in the South Asian region.
Responding to the comments, a spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh dismissed the US envoy’s assertions, saying such remarks distorted facts and were driven by ulterior motives.
“Such remarks by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh are irresponsible and utterly unfounded. They confuse right and wrong and are completely motivated by ulterior intentions,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
The spokesperson said China and Bangladesh have maintained a close and mutually respectful relationship over the past five decades since the establishment of diplomatic ties.
“Over the past 50 years, China and Bangladesh have always supported each other, treated one another as equals, and pursued win-win cooperation,” she said, adding that bilateral cooperation has delivered tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries and enjoys broad public support.
According to the statement, China-Bangladesh cooperation has contributed positively to regional development and stability, and should not be subject to external interference.
“Cooperation between China and Bangladesh is a matter between the two countries and their peoples, and brooks no interference or finger-pointing by the US side,” the spokesperson said.
She urged Washington to act responsibly and focus on constructive engagement in the region.
“We urge the US side to be more mindful of its responsibilities and to focus on actions that contribute to Bangladesh’s stability and to development and cooperation in the region,” the statement added.
The exchange reflects growing geopolitical sensitivities in South Asia as major powers seek to expand their influence in the region while Bangladesh continues to pursue a balanced foreign policy based on its national interests.
