China Expresses Full Technical Assistance Interest in Teesta Master Plan

PNN News Desk | Dhaka

China has once again shown renewed interest in the long-discussed Teesta River Management Master Plan, offering full technical assistance in its implementation. Beijing has expressed readiness to support the project at every stage—from survey and engineering design to planning and execution.

However, analysts believe the future of the project depends not only on financing or technical capacity but also on regional diplomacy and the positions of neighboring countries.

According to a spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office, Mahdi Amin, China has expressed willingness to provide comprehensive technical support throughout the entire lifecycle of the Teesta River management master plan. This means Beijing is prepared to be involved in survey work, design formulation, and full implementation phases.

Although discussions on the Teesta project have been ongoing in Bangladesh for many years, progress has remained limited due to various challenges. While some preliminary feasibility studies were completed in the past, the project never moved into full implementation. Officials suggest that regional geopolitical realities and India’s objections were major obstacles.

Meanwhile, the Teesta water-sharing agreement also remains unresolved. Despite long-standing diplomatic efforts between Bangladesh and India, no final agreement has been implemented. Experts believe that effective water-sharing arrangements are essential for the success of any river management project.

The current government considers the Teesta Master Plan a key development priority. It is also reported that government leadership has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the project for agricultural development, river management, and economic growth in northern Bangladesh.

At a press conference in Dhaka on Thursday, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen stated that China has responded positively to Bangladesh’s request for cooperation in the Teesta project. He emphasized that this assistance is purely development-oriented and carries no hidden agenda.

The Teesta River, which flows through Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bangladesh, is closely connected to the livelihoods of millions of people in the northern region. Experts say that if implemented, the project could significantly improve river management, flood control, water storage during dry seasons, and irrigation systems.

It may also boost agricultural production in Rangpur, Nilphamari, Gaibandha, and Kurigram, reduce river erosion, create new employment opportunities, and expand river-based industries and tourism.

Plans also include deepening and widening the river, reclaiming land for productive use, and improving overall water flow management.

However, analysts argue that the biggest challenge is not technical but strategic. In South Asia’s evolving geopolitical landscape, Bangladesh must carefully balance the interests of China, India, the United States, and other global powers.

According to international relations analyst Humayun Kabir, projects like the Teesta Master Plan and related economic corridors are no longer just development initiatives but part of broader regional strategic equations. He emphasized that sustainable implementation depends on Bangladesh’s ability to maintain balanced multilateral relations while safeguarding national interests.