Bangladesh and China Expand Teesta River Cooperation During Beijing Talks

Bangladesh and China on Thursday agreed to strengthen cooperation on the management of the Teesta River and other waterways during talks between Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Chinese Water Resources Minister Li Guoying in Beijing. The discussions focused on flood control, irrigation, riverbank protection, inland navigation and broader water resource management , with China offering technical assistance and training support.

Rahman highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing river excavation programme aimed at reducing flood risks, protecting the environment and improving water governance. He sought Chinese support for the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project , as well as assistance in tackling erosion and improving irrigation systems. Li assured full cooperation and noted that bilateral collaboration is already guided by a 2005 memorandum and follow up technical exchanges, including visits by Chinese water experts.

The Teesta project has emerged as a major strategic issue because the river originates in Sikkim , flows through West Bengal and enters Bangladesh, making it central to India-Bangladesh water diplomacy. China has long expressed interest in the project, while India in recent years has offered technical and conservation assistance for the Teesta basin. The proposed restoration works are also located near the strategically sensitive Siliguri Corridor , heightening regional interest.

The agreement comes as Rahman’s first major foreign tour since taking office. During the visit, Bangladesh and China are expected to sign between 15 and 17 agreements covering investment, infrastructure, connectivity and development cooperation.

Significantly, the development coincides with signs of improving India-Bangladesh relations. India is set to resume tourist visas for Bangladeshi nationals from June 28, a move expected to strengthen people to people exchanges and underscore New Delhi’s efforts to rebuild ties with Dhaka even as Bangladesh expands engagement with China.