Shortly after commemorating Bangladesh’s fallen soldiers on its Independence and National Day in Dhaka, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus boarded a special China Southern flight for a four-day official visit to China. His trip, against the backdrop of growing tensions between Bangladesh and India, is seen as a deliberate diplomatic signal.

This visit, his first bilateral engagement after stops in Davos, Washington DC, and Cairo, was not a solo endeavor. Accompanied by top officials covering foreign affairs, power, energy, infrastructure, and development goals, Yunus is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, address the Boao Forum for Asia, and engage with business leaders to attract investment.

Diplomatic Messaging: Yunus’s Visit to China

The significance of Yunus’s journey was emphasized by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who called it one of the most important visits by a Bangladeshi leader in the past 50 years. Bangladeshi officials have also acknowledged that choosing China as his first major state visit carries a strong message.

During his time in China, Yunus will focus on securing economic support, including a $138 million healthcare grant, negotiations for a Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and revisions to the bilateral investment treaty. China has already cemented itself as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a key investor, with at least 14 Chinese firms committing over $230 million since Yunus assumed office. The trip is expected to further deepen China’s influence in the country’s infrastructure and strategic sectors.

Additionally, Beijing is seeking Dhaka’s endorsement of its ‘One-China’ policy. While previous Bangladeshi leaders have offered varying degrees of support, Yunus’s stance on the issue remains closely watched.

India’s Response: A Call for Mutual Sensitivity

Even as Bangladesh strengthens ties with China, India’s leadership has conveyed a clear message about the importance of mutual respect in their bilateral relationship. In his National Day greeting to Yunus, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the historic bond between the two nations, rooted in the 1971 Liberation War.

“This day stands as a testament to our shared history and sacrifices... We remain committed to advancing this partnership, driven by peace, stability, and prosperity, and based on mutual sensitivity to each other’s interests and concerns,” Modi wrote in his letter.

President Droupadi Murmu also extended her congratulations while reaffirming India’s support for a stable and progressive Bangladesh. The mention of “mutual sensitivity” was a subtle but pointed reminder that India expects Dhaka to be mindful of its concerns, including regional stability and border security.

Rising Concerns: Attacks on Hindus and Border Security

Beyond diplomatic maneuvering, internal developments in Bangladesh have contributed to the strain in ties with India. The ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024 was followed by a surge in attacks on Hindu minorities, prompting sharp reactions from India and global human rights organizations.

Between November 2024 and January 2025, there were 76 reported incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, including temple desecrations and targeted killings. India has repeatedly urged Dhaka to address the safety of minorities and curb the growing influence of radical elements.

Additionally, border security remains a pressing concern for India, particularly in light of reports that illegal infiltration from Bangladesh has risen since the change in leadership. The largely unfenced eastern border has become a focal point for smuggling and unauthorized crossings, further complicating bilateral ties.

A Delicate Balancing Act

Yunus’s China visit highlights a shifting geopolitical equation, with Dhaka actively seeking stronger economic and strategic ties with Beijing. However, India remains a critical partner for Bangladesh, and New Delhi’s measured yet firm response indicates that a course correction from Dhaka may be necessary to restore normalcy in relations.

While Yunus reportedly sought a visit to India before traveling to China, his request did not receive a favorable response. As he deepens engagement with Beijing, India’s leadership has signaled that any reset in ties will require Bangladesh to address its security concerns and reaffirm its commitment to regional stability.