Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has stirred fresh debate after referring to China and India’s northeastern states during his farewell speech, delivered amid mounting political criticism at home.
Speaking at a public event as he prepares to step down, Yunus reportedly highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic geographic location between India’s “Seven Sisters” region and China, underscoring the country’s importance in regional connectivity and geopolitics.
His remarks come at a sensitive time. Yunus has been facing political pushback domestically, with critics questioning aspects of governance and policy decisions during his tenure. Against this backdrop, his comments about regional positioning have drawn attention in both Dhaka and New Delhi.
Observers note that Bangladesh’s location — bordering India’s northeastern states and positioned near China’s expanding economic footprint in South Asia — makes it a crucial player in regional trade routes, infrastructure corridors, and diplomatic alignments.
While Yunus’s supporters argue that he was merely acknowledging geopolitical realities, critics suggest the timing of the remarks could complicate Bangladesh’s diplomatic balancing act between its two major neighbours.
India and Bangladesh share strong historical, economic, and cultural ties, especially with the northeastern region. At the same time, Dhaka has deepened economic engagement with Beijing in recent years through infrastructure and development projects.
As Yunus exits office, his speech has added another layer to the ongoing discussion about Bangladesh’s foreign policy direction and regional strategy in an increasingly competitive Indo-Pacific landscape.
