March 31, 2025: Bangladesh’s interim government head, Muhammad Yunus, has stirred controversy by referring to India’s northeastern states while urging China to invest in Bangladesh. Speaking during his four-day visit to China, Yunus suggested that Beijing could use Bangladesh as a strategic gateway to the "landlocked" northeastern region of India, raising eyebrows in New Delhi.

While addressing a high-level roundtable discussion on 'Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy' at Beijing's The Presidential Hotel, Yunus described India’s northeastern states as an economic opportunity for China. "The seven states of India, the eastern part of India, are called the Seven Sisters. They are a landlocked region of India. They have no way to reach out to the ocean," he said.

He further emphasized Bangladesh’s geographical advantage, stating, "This opens up a huge possibility. This could be an extension of the Chinese economy. Build things, produce things, market things, bring things to China, bring it out to the rest of the world."

The remarks are expected to trigger strong reactions from India, as any expansion of China’s influence in its immediate neighborhood is seen as a strategic concern. Bangladesh shares a crucial border with India, including areas near the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the "Chicken’s Neck," a narrow strip connecting India’s northeastern states to the rest of the country.

Yunus did not limit his pitch to India’s northeast; he also mentioned Nepal and Bhutan, highlighting their hydropower potential as another reason for China to invest in Bangladesh. "Nepal and Bhutan have unlimited hydropower, which is a blessing. We can bring it to our purpose. From Bangladesh, you can go anywhere you want. The ocean is our backyard," he asserted.

His remarks are likely to prompt diplomatic scrutiny, as India has been watchful of China’s growing involvement in South Asia. While Bangladesh has been a key ally of India, such statements could strain ties between Dhaka and New Delhi, especially if China moves to capitalize on the economic and strategic proposals made by Yunus.