Indien erwirbt Terminalrechte für strategisch wichtigen Hafen Mongla in Bangladesch vor China

SS: India has secured a significant strategic win by obtaining the operational rights to a terminal at Bangladesh’s Mongla port, a move that has notable implications for the regional dynamics, especially for China. This development is seen as part of New Delhi’s broader efforts to counter Beijing’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean and to gain a foothold in strategically important foreign ports. The Mongla port, Bangladesh’s second-largest seaport after Chittagong, marks India’s third successful bid to manage overseas ports in recent years, following Chabahar in Iran and Sittwe in Myanmar. The exact details of the Mongla port deal remain undisclosed, but according to media reports, the terminal will be operated by Indian Port Global Limited (IPGL), reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).

China has been actively expanding its influence across the Indian Ocean as part of its Maritime Silk Road initiative, investing in ports from Gwadar in Pakistan to Djibouti in East Africa. Beijing’s investments include US$78 million in Djibouti and US$1.6 billion in Gwadar. Chinese companies are involved in 17 Indian Ocean ports, constructing 13 of them and holding stakes in eight projects. Beyond the Indian Ocean, Chinese companies have also secured leases for ports or terminals in countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE). About 80 per cent of China’s energy imports pass through the Indian Ocean, underscoring the strategic importance of these ports for Beijing. The Mongla port deal is seen as a counter-move to China’s substantial investments in the region, enhancing India’s influence over key maritime locations and reinforcing its role in regional security.

Bangladesh stands at a strategic crossroads in South and Southeast Asia, making it a potential hub for intra-regional trade in the Indo-Pacific. The country joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2016, hoping to leverage Beijing’s financial resources to boost its infrastructure and economic integration. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s recent trips to both India and China highlight this balancing act. During her visit to India, several cooperation agreements were signed, including those in the maritime sector. Conversely, her trip to China resulted in a comparatively modest US$137 million financial assistance, far short of the US$5 billion loan she sought.