China Backs 'Safe And Stable' Polls In Bangladesh Amid Rising Unrest Ahead Of February Election

Last Updated:December 23, 2025, 13:52 IST

China’s comments come in the backdrop of massive unrest in Bangladesh, with journalists and civil society members raising an alarm about deteriorating security conditions

Over recent years, China has become a principal economic and strategic partner of Dhaka, with massive infrastructure investments and expanded military cooperation. (Getty)

China on Tuesday reiterated its traditional diplomatic posture of cautious support for stability in Bangladesh when asked about the volatile situation in the country marked by violent protests following the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, attacks on media outlets, rising law‑and‑order concerns and broader political tensions.

Asked about China’s stand on the situation, a foreign ministry spokesperson said: “China wishes Bangladesh safe, stable and smooth parliamentary elections. We believe that various sectors of Bangladesh will properly advance important political agendas and uphold national solidarity and stability."

China’s comments come in the backdrop of massive unrest in Bangladesh. Following the death and national day of mourning for Hadi, who was shot dead in the month, widespread demonstrations have erupted, media offices have been torched, and journalists and civil society members have raised alarms about deteriorating security conditions as the vote approaches. There has also been a rise in the attacks on minorities, with a Hindu garment factory worker being lynched and set ablaze for blasphemy.

Beijing’s response is also shaped by deepening China-Bangladesh ties. Over recent years, China has become a principal economic and strategic partner of Dhaka, with massive infrastructure investments and expanded military cooperation, particularly since the interim government took office in 2024. Foreign relations analysts note that China’s emphasis on “stability" and “national solidarity" aligns with its broader preference for order over unpredictability in partner states, even as the United States and other external actors express concern over violence and democratic norms in Bangladesh.

China’s stance can also be viewed as contradictory to sharper criticisms from Western and regional voices, which have called for free and fair polls and urged de‑escalation of violence in the run‑up to February’s election. Beijing’s carefully worded support for stability—without direct critique of the violence—reflects its long‑standing diplomatic principle of non‑interference, but also underscores its strategic interests as Bangladesh approaches a pivotal and highly contested political moment.

News world China Backs 'Safe And Stable' Polls In Bangladesh Amid Rising Unrest Ahead Of February Election

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