Dhaka
Bangladeshi journalist and Blitz editor Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury has claimed that China may refuse to finance Bangladesh’s proposed Teesta multipurpose project unless Dhaka distances itself from what he described as an overly US-dependent foreign policy.
Speaking virtually on the YouTube programme Kathopokothon, hosted by Manjurul Alam Panna on the Manchitra platform, Shoaib Choudhury criticised the interim administration’s diplomatic strategy, alleging that it lacks a coherent foreign policy framework and is becoming increasingly reliant on the United States.
“The government publicly promotes a ‘Bangladesh First’ approach, but in reality it is pursuing policies that prioritise Washington’s interests,” he said.
He alleged that Beijing’s reluctance to invest in the Teesta project stems from concerns over Bangladesh’s growing strategic proximity to the United States, including foreign involvement in key infrastructure and maritime facilities. Shoaib Choudhury also claimed that China would be cautious about engaging with any administration perceived to be closely aligned with Washington.
During the discussion, he raised concerns about regional security developments involving Rakhine State and the Arakan Army. Referring to a social media post allegedly shared by a figure associated with the armed group, he claimed that a historical map had been circulated portraying Chattogram as part of the former Arakan kingdom.
Shoaib Choudhury further alleged that interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus introduced Starlink services in Bangladesh in a manner that could indirectly benefit the Arakan Army. He warned that any future corridor arrangement involving the group could pose risks to Bangladesh’s sovereignty and territorial security.
Addressing broader regional geopolitics, the veteran journalist alleged that Pakistan could attempt to use Bangladesh as part of a strategy to provoke tensions with India. He claimed such a scenario could potentially draw Bangladesh into a wider regional conflict.
He also criticised the administration’s handling of diplomatic appointments, alleging that several important overseas positions had been filled without sufficient professional qualifications.
Concluding his remarks, Shoaib Choudhury argued that Bangladesh should pursue a more balanced foreign policy by strengthening relations with countries including China and Russia, rather than becoming overly dependent on the United States.
