China's Strategic Extension : Northeast India on Alert

Bangladesh's interim government adviser Muhammad Yunus has ignited controversy by making a veiled threat to India's north-east states, by suggesting that China should expand its presence in the region. Yunus, who lately visited Beijing, inspired China to establish a base in Bangladesh, which can indirectly stifle India's northeastern states due to their landlocked location.

Yunus elaborated that Bangladesh is the only gateway to the ocean for the entire northeastern region of India, stating, "The seven states of India, in the eastern part of India - called the seven sister states are completely landlocked. They have no way to reach the ocean. We (Bangladesh) are the only guardian of the ocean for the entire region (northeast India)."

Furthermore he said that this situation presents a significant opportunity for China to expand its economy, stating, "So, this opens up a huge possibility for China - this could become an extension of the Chinese economy. Build things, market them, take them back to China, or export to the rest of the world."

Defence analysts have criticized Yunus' remarks and labelled them distasteful. This development comes amidst Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen its bond with China, having signed total 9 agreements with Beijing, including deals on economic & technical cooperation, infrastructure, media, culture, & health.

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