Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman has embarked on a three-day official visit to China, marking the first such trip since the BNP government took office two and a half months ago. Officials said the Teesta River issue will receive special attention during the talks. The visit aims to advance the long-stalled Comprehensive Management and Restoration of Teesta River Project, which Dhaka plans to implement with Chinese assistance after years of delay due to India’s objections.

The Teesta River, shared by Bangladesh and India, has long been a source of tension due to water-sharing disputes. A 2011 agreement between the two countries was never finalized, leading to recurring droughts and floods in northern Bangladesh. The proposed megaproject includes building a multipurpose barrage, dredging 102 kilometers of the river, constructing 203 kilometers of embankments, reclaiming land, and developing tourism and solar power facilities. China had earlier shown interest in financing the project, while India later expressed its own interest.

Analysts cited strategic motives behind both China’s and India’s involvement, linking Beijing’s interest to its Belt and Road Initiative. Local activists, however, remain cautious, urging the government to secure a fair water-sharing deal with India alongside the project’s implementation.