Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s China visit is gaining a lot of attention. He will reportedly hold key talks in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit is being closely watched by India and the United States, as Dhaka appears ready to expand cooperation with China in defence, infrastructure, and economic projects.
What is the focus of Tarique Rahman’s China visit?
During the visit, Tarique Rahman is expected to focus heavily on economic cooperation and investment deals. Bangladesh currently has more than 9 billion dollars in pending financing proposals with Chinese institutions. Dhaka is also seeking around 4.34 billion dollars for major projects such as the Teesta river management plan, Mongla port expansion, and a Chinese industrial economic zone in Chattogram.
Officials expect more than a dozen Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering electric vehicle technology, renewable energy, banking cooperation, and possible currency swap arrangements.
Bangladesh planning to buy Chinese fighter jets?
One of the most sensitive parts of the visit is Bangladesh’s defence deal with China. Dhaka is close to finalising a 2.2 billion dollar agreement to purchase 20 J-10CE multirole fighter jets from China, according to reports.
The package includes aircraft, training, spare parts, logistics, insurance, and infrastructure support. If completed, Bangladesh will become the second South Asian country after Pakistan to operate these jets, marking a major expansion of Chinese military influence in the region.
How is US reacting to this move?
The United States is closely tracking these developments. US President Donald Trump had earlier encouraged stronger defence cooperation between Bangladesh and American suppliers. Washington has also linked trade access with strict security conditions, limiting defence cooperation with countries seen as strategic rivals.
Experts believe Bangladesh is trying to balance ties with China, India, and the US, but its growing tilt toward Beijing will be closely watched in the coming months.
First published on: Jun 25, 2026 09:22 AM IST
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