Bangladesh prefers India over China for projects

According to reports, both China and India expressed their intention to implement the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration project, an initiative led by Dhaka aimed at improving the management of the river's waters. The project focuses on developing the basin of the Teesta river, which spans 414 km (257.25 miles) and flows from India into Bangladesh. Discussions regarding this project featured prominently during Hasina?s visit to New Delhi in June. The two countries have numerous rivers originating from the Himalayas and flowing into the Bay of Bengal.

An agreement on water sharing for the river was reached in 2011 but was not finalized due to objections from the eastern Indian state of West Bengal, through which the river passes before entering Bangladesh.

In response to India's delay in resolving the issue, China proposed its own plan. India subsequently responded earlier this year with its proposal, citing security concerns regarding Chinese engineers working near its borders.

Prime Minister Hasina mentioned, "China has made us an offer after conducting a feasibility study. India has also made an offer and will conduct a feasibility study." She emphasized, "However, I believe it is more important for India to undertake this initiative as India has delayed the release of Teesta River's waters."

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