Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has said that China is prepared to assist Bangladesh in implementing the Teesta River water management project whenever Dhaka decides to proceed.
“It’s a huge project (Teesta). We gave our feedback to Dhaka suggesting that the proposal be resubmitted in phases. We provided our feedback to the Economic Relations Division (ERD) in 2023 ... Two years have passed, but we haven’t received any response. We are still waiting,” he told reporters at a media briefing at the Chinese Embassy here.
The envoy emphasized the urgency of the Teesta project, highlighting its significance for the welfare of thousands of people living along the river banks.
He stated that China is willing to continue working on the project with the interim government, but Dhaka must first provide the necessary feedback for Beijing to initiate the support procedures.
However, he said, as a sovereign country, it’s up to Bangladesh to decide about the implementation of the project.
“Whether this project is done by China or by Bangladesh side, we just want it to start as soon as possible so that the people can benefit. This is our aspiration ... We want people to get rid of hardship,” he added.
The ambassador revealed that Bangladesh had initially sought Chinese assistance for the Teesta project in 2021 by submitting a proposal.
Following an evaluation, China responded in 2023, recommending revisions due to several unnecessary components in the project plan.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) today concluded a 48-hour continuous public rally, styled as the “Teesta River Protection Movement,” in various northern districts, urging the swift implementation of the Teesta Master Plan.
MSH
