China closely observed the high-level courtesies extended to Muhammad Yunus, head of the interim government of Bangladesh, by the United States (US), during the former’s visit to the United Nations General Assembly from 24–27 September. There was considerable resentment in Beijing as a high-level US official delegation visited Bangladesh from 14–15 September and pledged to provide US$200 million in aid. Speculations have been rife on the Chinese internet questioning whether Bangladesh, under the “pro-American” interim government, will now choose to side with the US camp, threatening China’s interests. What is the “US support” being exchanged for—is it the sovereignty of St. Martin island or the overall close China-Bangladesh ties?
Suspicion of American intervention in Bangladesh affairs
Although China has officially spoken little about it, in the Chinese assessment, the sudden change in Bangladesh’s political situation is not only a reflection of the country’s domestic political struggle but also a microcosm of the changes taking place in the global geopolitical landscape. Despite the White House categorically denying it, the Chinese strategic community sees some truth in the controversy over the interference of foreign forces behind the unrest in Bangladesh. Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s statement, claiming that she could have continued to govern Bangladesh if she had handed over the sovereignty of St. Martin island and let the US control the Bay of Bengal, has resonated within China’s strategic circles. For example, Zhang Sheng, a researcher at the Shanghai Institute of American Studies points out three key factors behind the US’ involvement in the unrest in Bangladesh
With the intensification of “great power competition”, the US wants to unite with its allies and partners to counter China. However, with the rising trend of “isolationism” in American politics, and the US’ declining global prestige, even its own allies are standing against it on certain global issues. For example, Spain, Norway, Sweden and others publicly deviated from the US’ stance in the current round of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Hasina, too, expressed dissatisfaction with the US’ role in the conflict. However, as a country with relatively weak economic and military strength, Bangladesh may have been targeted by American leaders as an example to warn other countries and leaders who might be inclined to challenge the US.