*Dhaka, August 24, 2025* — In a move with far-reaching geopoliticalimplications, Bangladesh has granted full access to its strategic MonglaPort to both Pakistan and China. The decision, confirmed by officials inDhaka, is being viewed as part of a growing alignment between South Asianand East Asian powers that could reshape regional dynamics.
Mongla Port, the second largest seaport in Bangladesh, lies just 100kilometers north of the Bay of Bengal. With improved connectivity andinvestment from China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the porthas gained importance as a maritime hub for regional trade and securityoperations.
According to sources, the new agreement allows Pakistan and China to useMongla Port for commercial as well as limited logistical purposes. WhileBangladesh emphasized that the deal is intended to “boost trade andregional connectivity,” strategic observers believe it could also carrysignificant defense implications.
India, which shares a long border with Bangladesh and has historicallyconsidered the Bay of Bengal as part of its strategic backyard, isreportedly monitoring the development with deep concern. Analysts in NewDelhi argue that the move may be part of a broader effort by China andPakistan to “encircle India” through access to key maritime points in SouthAsia.
“This decision will heighten India’s maritime security anxieties,” said aSouth Asia security analyst. “Bangladesh is exercising its sovereignty, butIndia will interpret this as a strategic squeeze by its rivals.”
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The development follows years of growing Chinese investment in Bangladesh’sinfrastructure, particularly in ports, energy projects, and industrialzones. Pakistan, meanwhile, has sought to strengthen economic ties withDhaka as part of its broader South Asian outreach.
While Dhaka insists that the arrangement is purely economic, the symbolismof granting access to two of India’s biggest rivals is unlikely to gounnoticed. Regional observers expect India to step up its diplomaticengagement with Bangladesh in response, while also boosting its navalpresence in the Bay of Bengal.
The Mongla Port development underscores the shifting balance of power inSouth Asia, where trade, infrastructure, and military strategy are becomingincreasingly intertwined.