Today, in Otralectura.com, Sabita Binta Azad Shifa write’s.

Bangladesh’s role in the Bay of Bengal has evolved significantly over the past decade. Once viewed primarily through a developmental or humanitarian lens, the country is increasingly recognized as a strategic actor whose geography, diplomacy, and economic choices shape regional dynamics. Bangladesh’s projection of power today is not defined by military dominance, but by its ability to influence regional connectivity, maritime stability, and great-power engagement in South and Southeast Asia.

Strategic Geography and Maritime Relevance

Bangladesh occupies a pivotal position at the northern edge of the Bay of Bengal, close to major sea lanes that connect the Indian Ocean with Southeast and East Asia. These routes carry a substantial share of global trade and energy flows, making the Bay of Bengal a strategically sensitive maritime space. Bangladesh’s peaceful settlement of maritime boundary disputes with India and Myanmar through international arbitration strengthened its legal and strategic standing, expanding its Exclusive Economic Zone and reinforcing its credibility as a rule-based maritime actor.

Ports such as Chattogram and Mongla are central to this projection of influence. Beyond serving national trade, they provide transit and access for India’s northeastern states and landlocked neighbors such as Bhutan and Nepal. By positioning itself as a logistical and maritime gateway, Bangladesh converts geography into sustained regional relevance.

Connectivity as a Tool of Power

Bangladesh’s projection of power is most visible in connectivity initiatives. Through sub-regional frameworks like BBIN and regional platforms such as BIMSTEC, Bangladesh has promoted transport corridors, energy cooperation, and trade facilitation. These initiatives reduce isolation in eastern South Asia while increasing dependence on Bangladeshi infrastructure and routes.

A practical example is India’s growing use of Bangladeshi ports and transit corridors to access its northeastern region. This arrangement serves Indian economic and security interests, while enhancing Bangladesh’s leverage as a partner that enables regional integration rather than obstructing it.

Balancing India and China

Bangladesh’s foreign policy reflects a careful balancing strategy between India and China, two major powers with competing interests in the Bay of Bengal. Relations with India are deep and multidimensional, covering security cooperation, energy trade, and cross-border connectivity. Electricity imports from India, joint infrastructure projects, and cooperation on counter-terrorism highlight this partnership, even as unresolved issues such as water sharing continue to test diplomatic patience.

At the same time, China has become a major investor in Bangladesh’s infrastructure, energy, and defense modernization. Chinese involvement in ports, bridges, and industrial zones has contributed to Bangladesh’s economic growth and technological capacity. Rather than aligning exclusively with either power, Bangladesh has used economic pragmatism and diplomatic restraint to benefit from both relationships while preserving strategic autonomy.

Myanmar, Security, and Moral Influence

Bangladesh’s eastern border with Myanmar adds another layer to its regional role. The Rohingya refugee crisis has imposed severe humanitarian and economic costs, yet Bangladesh’s response has earned international recognition. Hosting a large displaced population while continuing diplomatic engagement with Myanmar has enhanced Bangladesh’s moral standing, particularly in multilateral forums.

Maritime Security and International Standing

Bangladesh has gradually strengthened its naval capabilities and maritime governance, focusing on surveillance, disaster response, and protection of sea-based resources rather than power projection through force. Its consistent participation in UN peacekeeping operations further reinforces its image as a responsible contributor to international security.

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s projection of power in the Bay of Bengal is subtle but consequential. It is rooted in geography, amplified by connectivity, and sustained through balanced diplomacy. By positioning itself as a gateway, a mediator, and a stable maritime actor, Bangladesh has transformed structural constraints into strategic advantages.

By: Sabita Binta Azad Shifa

Sabita Binta Azad Shifa is a Bangladeshi international relations expert with research and writing interests in South Asian geopolitics, regional security, and diplomacy. She has published widely on strategic and policy issues and previously served as a university lecturer. She is currently engaged in the soft skills and professional development industry. Her work has been internationally recognized, including her selection as one of the 50 Global Women by the world’s largest nuclear organization.