Dhaka, Bangladesh — China’s ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, has praised the “courage and wisdom” of the country’s student protesters during a meeting with representatives of the movement. Student protests, which began in July, were a key factor in the wave of unrest that led to the fall of the previous government and the establishment of an interim administration in August.
Yao’s meeting on Thursday highlighted China’s support for the younger generation in Bangladesh, whom he credited for its role in steering the country towards what he described as a path of “unity, stability, development, and prosperity.”
“We appreciate courage and wisdom shown by a young generation of Bangladesh in the student movement,” the Chinese embassy in Dhaka said in a statement. “We encourage young people to contribute to the country as it returns to the right track.”
Student protests began after years of increasing dissatisfaction with the government, culminating in massive demonstrations that ultimately contributed to regime change. Since then, the movement has gained international attention for its role in reshaping the political landscape of Bangladesh.
Two prominent student leaders, Nahid Islam, and Asif Mahmud, were appointed to positions in the interim government in August, which is now led by renowned Bangladeshi economist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus. Though Islam and Mahmud were not present at Thursday’s meeting, Islam had previously met with Yao earlier this month.
China’s Position on Bangladesh’s Internal Affairs
China has been closely watching developments in Bangladesh as the country transitions under the leadership of Yunus. Shortly after the interim government was formed, Yao met with Yunus to discuss the future of Bangladesh and reaffirmed Beijing’s stance of non-interference in the country’s internal matters. During that meeting, Yao expressed China’s respect for independent choices made by Bangladeshi people in shaping our future.
Beijing has historically maintained strong ties with Bangladesh, particularly in areas of trade and infrastructure development. However, as the country undergoes significant political changes, China appears to be carefully navigating its diplomatic engagement with both new leadership and broader political movements shaping Bangladesh’s future.
As Bangladesh faces a critical period of transition, the international community will be closely monitoring the role of the interim government and the continued influence of the student movement that has so powerfully reshaped the country’s political landscape.
