India wants to remain Bangladesh’s most reliable partner. Parliamentary panel says development cooperation is key.

An Indian parliamentary committee has raised concerns about China’s growing presence in Bangladesh and urged New Delhi to expand development cooperation with Dhaka.

Committee’s report cited Chinese involvement in infrastructure, port expansion and defense projects, including Mongla Port, Lalmonirhat airbase and a submarine facility at Pekua.

“In this regard, the development of Lalmonirhat Airbase with Chinese assistance, which is just 15 km from the international border, is a matter of concern to the Committee,” the report said.

Panel warned that a military foothold established by an “unfriendly” country in Bangladesh could threaten India’s security, particularly near Siliguri Corridor and Bay of Bengal.

At the same time, lawmakers acknowledged Bangladesh’s right to choose international partners and urged India to reinforce its position as Bangladesh’s “most reliable partner” through stronger development cooperation, border coordination and advanced surveillance technology.