Beijing: China has expressed concern over the violent incidents in Bangladesh and emphasized the importance of holding elections on schedule. China stated that it maintains its traditional diplomatic stance of supporting elections and stability in Bangladesh in February. China's statement comes amidst violent protests across Bangladesh following the killing of youth leader Sharif Usman Hadi. The violence has raised fears that the proposed elections might be postponed. The elections in Bangladesh are scheduled for February 12th next year.
When asked about the situation in Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, "China has clearly stated that we want safe, stable, and smooth parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. We believe that various sectors of Bangladesh will properly advance important political agendas while maintaining national unity and stability." By emphasizing timely elections, China has sent a strong message to the Yunus government, which has repeatedly shown a tendency to delay the elections.
Beijing-Dhaka Relations
China is closely watching the situation in Bangladesh because its relations with Dhaka have improved significantly in recent years. In the past few years, China has emerged as a major economic and strategic partner for Dhaka. Especially since Mohammed Yunus came to power, China has increased both economic and military cooperation with Dhaka.
Several experts are expressing concerns that the elections might be postponed due to the ongoing violence in Bangladesh. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, who served as Commerce Minister in Khaleda Zia's government, has also questioned the Yunus administration. He suspects that the violent protests by the crowds are being used as a "tool" to prevent the elections. Expressing displeasure over the postponement of the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, the country's main political party, the BNP, said it does not support the decision. The BNP has previously emphasized the need for elections to be held as soon as possible. BNP leaders reiterated that the people are eagerly awaiting the elections scheduled for February. Besides the general public, candidates are also actively working in their respective constituencies.
