India has significantly decreased medical visa issuances to Bangladesh, dropping from 5,000-7,000 to under 1,000 daily since political changes. This has led many Bangladeshis to seek medical assistance from China, with rising Chinese investments in Bangladesh. Diplomatic tensions persist as India navigates these challenges, while growing Chinese influence alters the regional balance.

India has reportedly reduced the issuance of medical visas to Bangladesh, providing fewer than 1,000 visas daily, a significant decline from previous figures of 5,000 to 7,000 per day. This sharp decrease follows deteriorating diplomatic relations after political upheaval in Bangladesh, wherein Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus succeeded Sheikh Hasina, previously allied with India. The ongoing political crisis has left Bangladesh seeking alternatives, opening a pathway for increased Chinese influence in the region.

Since August, political tensions have escalated in Bangladesh, notably when Hasina was overthrown and sought refuge in India. In 2023, India granted over 2 million visas to Bangladeshis primarily for medical purposes, but the subsequent decline in medical visas has inclined many Bangladeshis to explore options in neighboring countries like Thailand and China. Recently, a delegation traveled to Yunnan, China to assess the medical tourism sector, highlighting the shifting preferences of Bangladeshi patients.

China has responded positively, announcing substantial investments exceeding $230 million in Bangladesh across various sectors since the interim government took charge. Additionally, a notable visit by Yunus to China to confer with President Xi Jinping is scheduled, emphasizing further cooperation. The easing of access for medical treatment in China and the potential establishment of a friendship hospital in Dhaka signifies a strengthening bilateral relationship.

The delay in India’s visa processing has generated dissatisfaction not only with the Bangladeshi government but also among the general populace. Concerns regarding staff safety in India’s embassy have compounded the visa issues, exacerbated by public discontent towards India’s previous asylum of Hasina. Sources suggest that despite India’s commitments to support medical access, it has been hindered by an increase in visa misuse related to migrants seeking to escape Bangladesh’s prevailing conditions.

Amidst these tensions, Chinese and Bangladeshi ties are flourishing, with ongoing discussions to further open Bangladesh’s market to Chinese investments in various industries, including solar energy. In contrast, India appears less engaged politically, with the first anticipated dialogue between Yunus and Prime Minister Modi only occurring next month. This changing dynamic in South Asia underscores a strategic shift, with China enhancing its influence while India’s traditional dominance faces scrutiny as it grapples with renewed diplomatic challenges.

In summary, India’s reduction in medical visa issuance to Bangladesh amidst political turmoil signifies a pivotal shift in regional influence. As relations deteriorate, Bangladesh is increasingly turning towards China for medical and economic opportunities. This evolution illustrates the changing dynamics in South Asia, where India’s historical dominance is being challenged by China’s growing presence and strategic partnerships. The ongoing developments will likely have lasting implications on both nations’ diplomatic and economic landscapes.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com

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