New Delhi, India – India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that it is monitoring Bangladesh’s plans to develop the Teesta river and a proposed economic corridor with assistance from China, and that it would take “appropriate measures” in response. The statement came after Bangladesh announced a partnership with China to build a multi‑modal transport corridor that would link the Indian state of West Bengal with the Chinese border town of Rakhine in Myanmar.
The MEA’s remarks were made in a brief statement on its official Facebook page, where it cautioned that “all developments in the neighbourhood are closely monitored” and that India would respond as needed. The statement did not detail what those measures might involve.
Bangladesh’s plans were unveiled earlier this month when the country signed a memorandum of understanding with the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) to construct a 400‑kilometre road corridor, a rail link, and a port facility along the Teesta river. The corridor is intended to improve connectivity between West Bengal and the northeastern states of India, as well as to provide Bangladesh with a shorter route to China.
India has long expressed concerns about Chinese infrastructure projects in the region, arguing that they could alter regional trade patterns and increase China’s strategic influence. In 2022, India’s parliament debated the “Belt and Road Initiative” and its potential impact on Indian sovereignty and security.
The MEA’s statement follows a series of diplomatic exchanges in which Indian officials have reiterated their position on China’s expanding footprint in South Asia. No official Indian spokesperson has yet clarified whether the ministry will engage directly with Bangladesh or China over the project.
Analysis: The MEA’s cautious wording reflects India’s broader strategy of monitoring Chinese infrastructure initiatives in its neighbourhood without escalating tensions. By invoking “appropriate measures,” the ministry leaves room to respond diplomatically, economically, or through regional multilateral forums. The lack of specificity also suggests that India is gathering more information before deciding on concrete actions.
Sources
– Hindustan Times, “Keeping close watch on B’desh, China development push: MEA,” published July 4 2026, https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/keeping-close-watch-on-b-desh-china-development-push-mea-101783106645733.html.
Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
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