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China is one of the most promising countries in global economy; while Bangladesh is a small country in South Asia. However, Sino-Bangla relations have been very pleasant ever since the political change over of Bangladesh in 1975. And the recent Chinese Prime minister’s visit has ushered new hope in bilateral relations. Indeed, strengthening economic cooperation with China is of crucial note for Bangladesh just now. Therefore, the objective of this article is to focus on the diverse domains of nurturing Sino-Bangla relation that is in gestation.
   China and Bangladesh are going to celebrate 30 years of their diplomatic links with fresh determination to reinvigorate in future. To date, the economic relations between Dhaka and Beijing have not been as significant as it should have been. Besides, trade balance is largely in favour of China. Thus, trade bodies of both nations should play a pioneering role in identifying new areas for economic co-operation. Likewise, trade fairs will definitely boost understanding between the business communities. Moreover, though Bangladesh offers huge incentives to foreign investment, Chinese entrepreneurs have not been coming to Bangladesh with the same sprit as their government has. Apart from that, it is high time Bangladesh came out from traditional pattern of trade i.e. primary products and textiles. China’s experience in diversifying export basket through technology innovation and business incubation can provide important lessons for country like Bangladesh. Since it is hard for Bangladesh to diversify export basket swiftly, Bangladesh should look for niche markets in China for her products. Duty free access of Bangladeshi goods to China can also ease trade imbalance markedly. Additionally, it is important to point out that Chinese importers will receive incentive from their government if they import Bangladeshi products. At the same time both parties should pursue developed nations to lessen stringent conditions on goods from developing countries. Last but not the least, China has pledged resolute backing to Bangladesh’s development endeavours. Nevertheless, one should keep in mind that Chinese experience cannot be replicated wholly in Bangladesh. But with regard to bold policy and economic reforms, Chinese knowledge is pertinent here. Hence, suffice it to say that Sino-Bangla has embarked on a great mission that may open up new ways for taking economic relation one step ahead.
   On the other hand, a good and decisive foreign policy is required to boost Bangladesh’s image abroad. Nonetheless, domestic politics are largely responsible for country’s wavering foreign policy. That’s why, it is cherished that government and opposition will speak with one voice and work diligently in moulding foreign policy. In addition, amicable co-existence with neighbouring countries must be the focus of Bangladesh’s foreign policy. Point to note that days of amateur and myopic political leadership in international politics are well over. Besides, dearth of coordination is a problem in Bangladesh’s foreign policy execution. On the top of that, foreign ministry of Bangladesh lacks of skills needed in foreign policy performance. Moreover, it is prudent to mention here that information technologies and electronic media currently play a pivotal role in implementing foreign policy. Therefore, restructuring of Bangladesh’s foreign ministry along with a robust foreign policy is of the essence for Bangladesh right now. Furthermore, the vision of the government must be articulated explicitly in the foreign policy so as to realize its vision in line with its foreign policy. Thus, meticulous attempts must be in sight at once so that there will be no excuses of any sort relating to foreign policy.
   Anyway, what if Bangladesh continues to rely on western economy particularly the US and EU (European Union)? Well, free fall of dollar will directly hit our export earning. Besides, with limited items in export basket, country’s export revenue will decline drastically. On the contrary, rising import expenditures will lead to balance of payment difficulties; hence, it will falter Bangladesh’s currency further. Apart from that, it was hoped that Japan and EU would pick up and shoulder the responsibility of world economy. Unfortunately they did not. As a result, Bangladesh will suffer chronic economic dilemma ahead because of the turbulent world economy. Moreover, following the end of global textile quota system coupled with the emergence of China in the international market are compelling developing countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and so forth to face further economic hurdles. Accordingly, developed nations are contemplating to stem Chinese huge appetite for global textile markets with some protectionist measures. Yet, China can obviate developed nations’ concern by investing in textiles industries of developing countries and helping them vertically integrated with their textile industry in no time. Meanwhile, Bangladesh should diversify her export basket along with export markets so as to lessen her dependence on the western economy. Hence, dogged determination along with firm commitments must be undertaken to galvanize alliance with China in line with Kunming Initiatives (an attempt to bring together Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar (BCIM) in order to launch an economic cooperation forum in 1999). What’s is more, Bangladesh has also accentuated the need to strengthen economic cooperation with other regional bodies such as ASEAN. China as well as Japan can play a proactive role in this respect. In addition to South-South co-operation, it may vindicate China’s claim to be a leader from global south. Therefore, economic diplomacy should be the order of the day!
   Nonetheless, it is hard for Bangladesh to conceal her structural weakness over the long time. Furthermore, it seems that Bangladesh’s government has failed to sense the alarm of economic troubles that are on the horizon. Apart from that, since Bangladesh has been integrating with international economy, how far Bangladesh’s business communities are ready to face fierce international competition? Moreover, e-commerce is the cornerstone of international trade nowadays. Nevertheless, lack of e-commerce expertise is evident in Bangladesh. In essence, right human resources are the mainstay for Bangladesh at present to harness the immense opportunities that are lying ahead. Similarly, concrete steps towards more business friendly and less rigid economic management must be high on the agenda. Indeed, real Titanic works are lying ahead for Bangladesh.
   However, soaring oil price is another issue that is dominating world politics at the moment. It is well to mention here that India and China are the two largest oil thirsty nations in the world. And one is Bangladesh’s close neighbour and the other is not far from Bangladesh. In addition, natural resources like gas are believed to have plentiful in Bangladesh. Bangladesh cannot explore and utilize her natural resources for want of fund. Accordingly, energy co-operation can garner significant benefit if two Asian giants come simultaneously to outline sensible and executable schemes for energy co-operation. More to the point, energy co-operation can be a strategic step in easing tension and suspicion among the nations. And that would be a great way to trigger co-operation in other areas of mutual interests.
   Furthermore, China’s entry in WTO (World Trade Organization) will strengthen the multilateral trading system and also amplify the voice of developing countries in the global forum. Thus, Dhaka and Beijing as well as developing countries should form issue-oriented coalition together with strategy in the upcoming WTO meeting. Similarly, developing countries can seek less stringent and a longer time frame for compliance with WTO commitments. In this manner, two countries can uphold their mutual interests in the international trade forum. On top of that, it can foster developing countries bargaining sway in WTO. In a nutshell, China should take bold steps and lead the developing countries from the front. At the same time, right initiative should be taken to avoid any reverberation of Cancun’s failure at the next WTO summit in Hong Kong. Well, it is time for diplomacy.
   Apart from that, poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere; that’s why, attacking poverty has been given top priority in this region. For that reason, it goes without saying that a comprehensive regional effort along with sustainable strategies must be in place in order to alleviate poverty. Well, in the first place the foremost step would be firm commitment from regional leaders to lessen poverty from this region. Besides, a regional fund for poverty reduction must be created sooner rather than later. In addition, ADB (Asian Development Bank)—as the family doctor—has vowed to fight poverty and energizing itself so as to respond to the region’s need in a flexible and timely manner. On the top of that, Bangladesh should learn China’s successful experience in poverty reduction and seek Chinese support including FDIs (Foreign Direct Investment) straightaway on poverty alleviation. Moreover, the initiative will be stronger if international community also plays proactive role in poverty reduction in this region. Hence, actions by the international community will continue to be essential. Accordingly, sturdy and coherent efforts combined with decisive strategies being undertaken by China and India as well as international community can kindle more progress in alleviating poverty.
   Anyway, what about maritime management? Well, a new era will begin provided that the governments of this region including Sino-SAARC-ASEAN come forward to have a coherent policy for regional alliance in respect of maritime management. Besides, the existing warning system of the cyclones is not at all compatible with the realities on the ground. Hence, co-operation during natural disasters and establishing direct communication links among the governments of the region may change the existing scenario. Recent Tsunami catastrophe should be a wake up call for countries in this region to put cohesive attempt in this connection. Additionally, a national maritime policy can be formulated right away to confront the future challenge. Thus, an integrated approach to maritime management is long overdue.
   Another major concern is AIDS that demands urgent cohesive actions. It is needless to say that a country cannot clamp down on this problem in isolation. It is crucial for nations to embark on right course lest AIDS turns into epidemic reality. But where is the strategy to cease it? At least a regional effort sided with international communities can harvest noteworthy benefit for the entire region.
   At the same time, people to people contact should be on the cards to glue both nations attachment distinctly. Tourism can play an effectual role in driving Sino-Bangla relations to a new height. Moreover, two countries have decided of late to initiate air flights to boost business and tourist exchanges. In addition, the road link to China through Myanmar is of paramount importance. Besides, it has been emphasized to enhance further collaboration between Dhaka and Beijing in the cultural fields. As a first resort, organizing fair will surely augur well for both countries. Eventually, it is necessary to abolish all impediments of mingling two countries’ citizens so as to build a real platform for both countries to proceed on further to flourish. On the top of that, it can cultivate an enduring Sino-Bangla relation that will certainly cement both nations’ ties notably. Subsequently, government-to-government interaction should be encouraged to drive Dhaka- Beijing relations onward.
   In addition, it is worthwhile analysing how the US will view the flourishing Sino-Bangla relations? Well, it is apparent that the US has been very much worried about China – a burgeoning economy compared with German’s growth a century earlier. Besides, American strategic partnership with India is an obvious sign of policy of containment being engineered by the US towards China. Moreover, the US is not happy over Chinese trade practices and WTO commitment. Likewise, the raw over Yuan appreciation is another topic that strains Sino-US relations. And Chinese expansion to Indian Ocean through Pakistan and Myanmar to oversee oil shipments from Persian Gulf might cause insomnia to the US foreign policy makers. Additionally, a proposal to use Chittagong seaport of Bangladesh has added fuel to the fire. Considering the US and China relations, one can easily infer that any neck and neck relation with China by a developing country like Bangladesh will have huge repercussion on her fragile economy. Therein lies the importance of Bangladesh’s leaders forethought alongside diplomatic skills. At the same time, it is imperative to send message across the world that Bangladesh is not seeking any relation with China at the expense of her any diplomatic relation, let alone the United States. Furthermore, it may be well to mention here that Delhi’s big brother attitude and jaundiced view of South Asia have forced Dhaka to consider seriously about her ‘Look East’ foreign policy. Dhaka and Yangon road link and pursuing China to implement Kunming initiatives do suffice to analyse Dhaka’s enthusiasm in that direction. Nonetheless, Bangladesh has given top priority in regional co-operation. And her efforts are on to strengthen SAARC because of her inextricable fortune with other South Asian Countries. Bangladesh is fully aware of that, by the way.
   In conclusion, Sino-Bangla relations will be embarked on more co-operative footing in near future. Therefore, it is high time nations were on course for outlining ways and means of energizing Dhaka-Beijing ties. For this to happen, economic diplomacy should be the quintessence of Bangladesh’s foreign policy agenda. Besides, China is becoming an important actor in the coming decades of international relations, what can Bangladesh harness from splendidly growing Chinese economy? Well, this calls for brainstorming along with firm resolution on the part of concerned authorities to help Bangladesh secure a respectable position in international arena, while bewildering international relations apparently pose serious challenges to Bangladesh. Hence, the situation points to a leader who has creativity, insight as well as intuition to navigate Bangladesh through this critical juncture!
   The writers are research professionals. Response to: naserahmed76@yahoo.com

Senegal, as the official commentator repeatedly informed the whole world, made history by defeating France in the opening World Cup match of the new millennium. Dubbed by the media rather unkindly as the French reserve side and mentored by a Frenchman known better for his flamboyant style than for his success as a coach, the African lions humbled their erstwhile colonial masters in the game they learnt as a white man’s folly. And therefore history, according to our TV commentator, was made. History today appears to unfold just before our eyes on television through events witnessed by whole nations instantly as it unfolds in a place somewhat removed from our own surroundings. We leap in joy at the success of the team we root for, and break into tears for the vanquished we have sympathy for. And then we look forward to another televised event that may have the possibility of being historical. History it appears is catching up with time, shedding its image of being something of the remote past. History now is being contemporary.
   Today the world has two kinds of history –the living and the dead. Most of the world capitalises on the dead one by making tourist attractions out of historical sites to earn substantial dollars from ‘been there seen it all’ people. Then they go on with their efforts for a more fulfilling everyday life and if by chance they witness history in the making they accept it as it is. They leave the academicians to discourse and debate on the significance and importance of the event that does not have a direct impact on their daily routine. They go on living.
   However, here in Bangladesh we have our very own perspective on historical events. We never allow the ‘dead to rest in peace’ and make living as deadly as possible (remember baby Naureen and the crude words of sympathy of the erstwhile Home Minister?). The obsession of politicians to capitalize on the doings and misdoings of dead leaders has risen to suffocating proportions; it may serve their individual political ambitions. However, it strangulates the everyday living of the common Bangladeshi who in desperation seeks refuge by fanatically supporting a country he will probably never visit in his life. Thanks for the World Cup and thanks for the distraction.
   Now, why do our leaders keep themselves busy with moribund political issues as to who is the father of the nation, who is the first announcer of the war of independence, who is greater and who did what? For an academician, it may be valuable research and for posterity it may be interesting reading; but for the toiling masses, the farmer worried about an early monsoon, the housewife tired at balancing her grocery budget, the young graduate frustrated with an employment embargo, does it have any relevance or bearing on their day-to-day struggle to exist? Does it any way lower the suffering of a bed-ridden patient hospitalised in the country’s premier teaching hospital, ignored by doctors who themselves have to operate by placating the whims of fourth-class employees who are supposed to work for them! Does it lessen the annoyance felt by consumers harassed for bribes by the gas, water and electricity meter reader, and the telephone lineman who are amply protected by their supervisors? Forget the police and other law enforcing agencies – everyone knows we are in a mess politically as well as administratively and what do we hear? An ex-prime minister is annoyed at the withdrawal of her father’s portrait so she and her party boycotts parliament, the incumbent is annoyed with the president for his apparent omission of not visiting her husband’s grave and paves the way for his resignation. Irresponsibility as demonstrated by our leaders has scaled ridiculous heights. They have simply trivialised their electoral pledges to the living and have resorted to utilising the political capital they inherited from the dead. It is time such people were shunned by the electorate by people who believe in the present and are willing to invest their dreams in it. It is high time that any political rhetoric that has no significance concerning the economic advancement of people is treated with contempt in a demonstrative way.
   So, what do we do? Well, we may start calling a spade a spade and start digging out the filth that pervades a society. We start asking the right questions and keep a tally of the lies and false promises that politicians make and compel them to be accountable. Let us start boycotting politicians and treat them with contempt. Let us ask questions of how certain politicians become chairmen/directors of banks/insurance companies and large business houses during the reign of their party in power? Let the culprits be identified, be they political touts, mastans, corrupt government officials, scheming trade unionists, thieving NGOs, fraudulent international consultants, opportunistic journalists or simply the teacher who steals the food for education funds. Let the media and civil society start systematically to identify these thieves and plunderers and castigate a government reluctant to take to task these plunderers as abettors or fellow plunderers.
   How is it that each successive party that comes to power initiates corruption cases and conveniently never ends the investigation? It seems that there is a tacit agreement, a brotherhood between thieves among the alternating power-sharers. Today as never before there is a need for a Third force. The incumbents will ridicule it and the opposition will meet it with a disagreeable silence which itself is a testimony of the potency of a third force that will create such a social movement that will eventually stop the rot that pervades society. The media despite their limitation have to rise above their partisan outlook and for the greater good of the society start pointing out the crooks and expose them to public shame.
   Else the whole nation will remain hostage to the might of ill-gotten wealth and create a thugocracy intolerable for any law-abiding citizen. All social contracts will be broken and society will simply be uninhabitable It is high time a few good men stand up, band together and rally the honest section of society to point to not only what is wrong with society but who are the wrong-doers. The media need not be shy as this will be the first step of rebuilding the social fabric. Otherwise false middle-class decency will allow our society to perpetuate the existing wrongs that will eventually strangulate it to its death. It is now or never to push aside the merchants of dead legacies and welcome a new beginning. The people of Bangladesh through the sacrifices of three million in 1971 plus the thousands of martyrs of 33 years of misrule deserve it -and they deserve it now! Let us make history again and let the media take the first step.

The country stands 24 hours from an election that will determine whether Britain has a Labour or a Conservative government.
   During the last, predominantly Conservative century, Labour never had the chance to irreversibly improve our country. But during this election we have been making and winning the case not just for a third Labour term but for a long-term progressive consensus – for full employment, world-class public services, tackling child and pensioner poverty, and building a fairer Britain.
   Yet winning these arguments does not mean we will win the election. Thursday’s result hangs in the balance for one main reason: not because of the strength of the Conservative party today, but because of the reluctance of some of our former supporters to vote Labour.
   But there is no advance for the progressive cause if a Labour vote switches to Liberal Democrat in a Labour-held seat where the Conservatives are second, and so allows the Conservatives in by the back door.
   Switching from Labour to Lib Dem in Labour-held seats risks the advances we have made on jobs, public services, world debt and trade justice – and the progress we can make in the next parliament.
   To fall into the old trap of progressive politics and reject a progressive government on the basis of disagreeing with it strongly on one concern could lead to a regressive government that is hostile to social and economic justice.
   Yet the values that unite us as progressives are greater than any single issue that divides us. The progressive future for which we stand demands that we seek to end child poverty in our generation. We propose to increase the child tax credit each year in line with earnings, and over the next three years by a total of 13%. The Conservatives opposed the child tax credit; they opposed the minimum wage; they oppose our goal of ending child poverty. And they gave no support to Sure Start, the new frontier of a modern welfare state.
   The progressive future for which we stand also demands that we move Britain ever closer to full employment. We propose to extend the New Deal so it becomes a New Deal for jobs and skills. The Conservatives, when last in government, gave Britain 3 million unemployed, and would abolish the New Deal and endanger economic stability.
   The progressive future demands record investment in schools and hospitals. We propose to double the investment per pupil in education from £2,500 in 1997 to £5,500 by 2007. And while in 1997 Britain spent an average of £1,700 per family on the NHS, we propose that by 2007 we will spend £4,000 per family. The Conservatives would cut £2bn from local schools to subsidise the private-school fees of a privileged few; they would cut £1bn from the NHS to subsidise private operations for those who can afford to pay a fee. So their policy is healthcare based not on need but ability to pay.
   The poorest households with children are an average of £3,200 a year better off since 1997, the poorest pensioner households £2,000 a year better off, with the pension credit rising in line with earnings for the next three years. Would a Conservative government have created Sure Start or the pension credit? Would a Conservative government ever have introduced the minimum wage or reversed decades of underinvestment in education and health?
   Labour’s aim is to ensure for every child the best possible start in life and to extend opportunity beyond the few to all. This is the mission of our generation, the work that drives us on, the abiding moral purpose of Labour.
   So to anyone tempted to use this election to register their discontent: there are real consequences to a protest vote that risks inadvertently returning the Conservatives to power, and which by punishing Labour would end up punishing the people who most need Labour.
   And to those who doubt whether their values are shared by this Labour government, whether we, the Labour party, have lost our idealism, our belief in social justice and what is morally right, I say: look to our commitment to international development, our crusade for debt relief, our campaign for free schooling and healthcare for the poorest in the poorest countries.
   Put simply, this election is a choice between a future rooted in progressive values and a Conservative party that has learned nothing from its past failures – that would attempt to reverse every element of our reform programme.
   Conservatives say this election is an opportunity to send a message. It is. It is time to send a message to them and reshape the ideological map of Britain, with a third Conservative defeat ending, perhaps for ever, the prospect of a hard-right Conservative government returning to power.
   I am convinced there is a majority in this country who believe in opportunity for all. Many readers of this newspaper are a part of that majority. The future of the progressive cause is in your hands.
   — The Guardian