Bangladesh has approached China for assistance with its Teesta River restoration project, a US$1 billion scheme aimed at revitalizing the vital waterway. This move comes as Dhaka seeks support for millions dependent on the river, potentially signaling a shift in its regional partnerships.

Every dry season, the Teesta River shrinks a little more – and with it, the livelihoods of millions of Bangladeshis who depend on its waters to survive. Dhaka has been asking India to help for years. Now, it is asking Beijing instead. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who took office in February, formally asked China earlier this month to help with its Teesta River restoration project, Bangladeshi state media reported. The US$1 billion scheme aims to dredge and rehabilitate more than.....