Dhaka: China on Thursday responded to recent remarks made by the US Ambassador to Bangladesh concerning China’s influence in the region. Beijing urged Washington to prioritize actions that support Bangladesh’s stability and promote regional development and cooperation.

According to United News of Bangladesh, a spokesperson from the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh dismissed the comments made by the US Ambassador as irresponsible and baseless. The spokesperson emphasized that these remarks misrepresent the situation and are motivated by ulterior motives. The embassy’s response was shared on its official Facebook page.

The spokesperson highlighted the longstanding relationship between Bangladesh and China, noting that for over 50 years, both nations have supported each other, engaged in equitable partnerships, and pursued mutually beneficial cooperation. This collaboration has garnered widespread support from the populations of both countries and has contributed positively to regional stability and development.

China asserted that the ongoing cooperation between Bangladesh and China is a bilateral matter that should not be subject to interference or criticism from the United States.

The remarks from Beijing came after Brent T Christensen, the newly appointed US Ambassador to Bangladesh, expressed concerns on Wednesday about China’s growing influence in South Asia. Ambassador Christensen underscored the various options available to the United States to assist its partner militaries in meeting their capability requirements. He reiterated his commitment to engaging with the Bangladeshi government to discuss potential risks associated with Chinese involvement in certain sectors, should Bangladesh choose to pursue such a path.