At a time when questions of foreign influence and economic partnership are shaping political discourse, Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Shafiqur Rahman has drawn a sharp distinction between global powers, portraying China as a consistent, non-intrusive partner of Bangladesh.
Speaking at a food distribution programme in Mirpur on Tuesday, the Jamaat amir and opposition leader in parliament said China has “never interfered” in the country’s internal affairs since independence, contrasting it with unnamed actors he accused of extracting benefits without giving back.
“Many interfere and take everything from Bangladesh without offering anything in return. China does not do that,” he said, expressing hope that Beijing would take on a more proactive role in supporting the country’s development and public welfare.
The event, held at Adarsha High School grounds in Mirpur-10 ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, was attended by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who joined the distribution of food packages among low-income families.
Sovereignty and strategic balance
Shafiqur’s remarks come amid renewed debate over Bangladesh’s foreign policy direction, as the country navigates competing interests among global and regional powers.
Emphasising sovereignty, he said Dhaka seeks friendly ties with all nations but will not accept external dominance. “We want relations with all civilised countries. But we will not carry anyone’s domination on our shoulders again,” he said, invoking a broader political narrative of independence and self-respect.
He also framed the issue in generational terms, arguing that young Bangladeshis are unwilling to accept foreign influence and are determined to assert national identity on the global stage.
China ties and political messaging
Highlighting five decades of bilateral relations, Rahman described China as one of Bangladesh’s key development partners since its recognition in 1976. He cited major infrastructure projects, including the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, as symbols of that cooperation.
In a pointed political comment, he criticised past governments for what he called the “politicisation” of such projects, alleging that symbols of international friendship had been appropriated for partisan purposes.
Teesta, development and expectations
The Jamaat chief also raised the long-delayed Teesta River project, describing it as a longstanding demand of northern Bangladesh. Without mentioning a specific hurdle, he suggested political and diplomatic constraints had stalled progress.
“We want to come out of that culture and assert our independent foreign policy,” he said, adding that his party would support initiatives that serve national interests.
He pointed to recent Chinese commitments, including plans for large hospital projects and student facilities, as further signs of deepening ties.
China’s outreach
Ambassador Yao Wen, addressing the gathering, described Eid-ul-Fitr as a “festival of love” and said the food support was meant to share joy ahead of the celebration.
He also signalled Beijing’s willingness to work with Jamaat-e-Islami and its leadership in advancing development cooperation, expressing optimism about a “prosperous Bangladesh” built through partnership.
Political undertones
Beyond the event, the statement underscores a broader political positioning, one that frames China as a dependable partner while implicitly questioning the role of other international actors.
As Bangladesh heads into a politically sensitive period, such narratives are likely to shape debates on sovereignty, development financing and the country’s place in an increasingly contested geopolitical landscape.