India’s sharp decline in medical visa issuance to Bangladesh has raised concerns while paving the way for enhanced Chinese influence, marked by investments and cooperation. The deterioration of Bangladesh-India relations post-internal political upheaval has prompted Bangladesh to explore ties with China, indicating a major shift in South Asia’s geopolitical landscape.

India’s reduction in medical visas for Bangladesh has sparked concern and opened avenues for increased influence from China. In recent months, India has decreased its issuance of medical visas from approximately 5,000 to fewer than 1,000 each working day, attributed to deteriorating diplomatic relations following Bangladesh’s interim government takeover. This shift comes after Bangladesh’s leader, Sheikh Hasina, sought refuge in India amid political unrest.

In 2023, India provided over 2 million visas to Bangladeshi citizens for medical purposes. However, with the current decline, Chinese entities are stepping in. A recent visit by a group of Bangladeshis to Yunnan highlights China’s growing appeal as a medical tourism destination. Chinese investments in Bangladesh have surged, with over 14 companies committing more than $230 million since the formation of the interim government.

Bangladesh’s interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus is expected to visit China soon to strengthen bilateral relations. The prospect of a Chinese friendship hospital in Dhaka further intensifies this growing partnership. Moreover, China aims to deepen cooperation with Bangladesh without targeting other nations, emphasizing mutual benefits.

India’s drawn-out visa processing has also alienated the Bangladeshi public and government, especially following incidents of public unrest against India for sheltering Hasina. Heightened security concerns and staff shortages within the Indian embassy are cited reasons for delays in the visa process, with indications that some medical visas were misused for migration purposes.

Despite extending significant credit lines to Bangladesh for infrastructure projects, India’s relations seem to be faltering as China’s influence grows. Recent meetings between Bangladeshi officials and Chinese representatives indicate a strengthening of ties, with Bangladesh ready to broaden its market for Chinese investments.

Additionally, while Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are scheduled to meet in the coming month, the timing emphasizes India’s waning influence within the region. Experts suggest that South Asia is experiencing a strategic reorientation, with China emerging as a pivotal player.

The reduction of medical visas issued by India to Bangladesh has created an opportunity for China to enhance its influence in the region. With growing investments and developing relations, particularly under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh appears poised to deepen its ties with China at the expense of traditional relationships with India. This situation reflects a significant shift in regional dynamics, necessitating careful diplomatic navigation by India moving forward.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com

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