Porikroma Desk : North South University's Centre for Peace Studies (CPS), operating under the South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG), hosted a Chinese delegation from the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) at Sichuan University. The purpose of the event, which took place on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the SIPG conference room on the NSU campus in Dhaka, was to facilitate discussions and insights on the importance of enhanced regional connectivity, as stated in a press release.

The event was chaired by Professor Sk Tawfique M Haque, Director of SIPG and the current Chair of the Department of Political Science and Sociology (PSS). Esteemed academics from both ISAS and SIPG were present, including Associate Professor Zeng Xiangyu, Associate Professor Liu Siwei, Lecturer Gao Liang, and Lecturer Chen Xixi from ISAS, Sichuan University. Notable personalities from SIPG included Senior Fellow Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Professor Mahbubur Rahman, Professor Mohammed Nuruzzaman, Associate Professor M. Jashim Uddin, and Professor Amena Mohsin from Dhaka University.

The comprehensive discussion delved into various Bangladesh-China issues, covering a wide range of topics. Dr. Sakhawat Hossain highlighted the need for stability in Indo-China relations, emphasizing its critical role in the prosperity of the South Asian region, including smaller states like Bangladesh. Professor Mahbubur Rahman shed light on China's increasing global significance and explored potential avenues for Bangladesh to leverage its economic growth. Professor Mohammed Nuruzzaman addressed the pressing Rohingya crisis, discussing China's potential role in finding a constructive resolution to this humanitarian issue. Associate Professor M. Jashim Uddin raised concerns about the growing trade imbalance between China and Bangladesh and sought strategies to rectify the situation. Professor Amena Mohsin clarified Bangladesh's legal framework, highlighting its predominantly secular nature while considering religious aspects in personal laws. The Chinese delegation, in response, explored ways to enhance Beijing's image among the Bangladeshi population and addressed concerns related to India. They further expressed their perception of the West's engagement in the region as insincere compared to Beijing's approach.

Professor Sk Tawfique M Haque skillfully moderated the event, drawing comparisons between Chinese developmental assistance and that of Western nations. Additionally, a student exchange seminar provided an opportunity for students from the Chinese delegation and Bangladeshi students who had studied in China to share their experiences and insights.

This collaborative exchange between the Institute of South Asian Studies, Sichuan University, and SIPG, NSU represents a significant stride in fostering meaningful discussions and promoting regional connectivity. The valuable insights shared during the event are expected to contribute to an enhanced understanding and cooperation between Bangladesh and China.