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Unveiling the Power Dynamic: A Critical Review of the Belt and Road Initiative’s Impact on China-Bangladesh Relations

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  • Md. Shofik Uddin

    (Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Varendra University, Rajshahi, Bangladesh)

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes existing literature to analyze the power dynamics between China and Bangladesh within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework. Through rigorous article retrieval, evaluation, and analysis, 192 studies (16 books, 173 articles, and three conference proceedings) were included, supplemented by additional studies from reference lists. The review employs an integrated theoretical framework combining neorealism and neoliberal institutionalism to examine the intricate dynamics at play comprehensively. Key findings reveal diverse dimensions, including China’s hegemonic ambition, economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and geopolitical implications. The review identifies two narratives: one emphasizing the benefits of closer ties with China and the other expressing concerns about sovereignty and dependency. It underscores the transformative impact of the BRI on the China-Bangladesh relationship and emphasizes the need for further analysis of power dynamics. This research informs policymakers and practitioners, contributes to scholarly discourse, and highlights the evolving nature of this bilateral relationship under the BRI.

Suggested Citation

  • Md. Shofik Uddin, 2025. "Unveiling the Power Dynamic: A Critical Review of the Belt and Road Initiative’s Impact on China-Bangladesh Relations," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(2), pages 3120-3137, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-2:p:3120-3137
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Rubiat Saimum, 2020. "The Prospect of Belt and Road Initiative in the Context of Bangladesh," China Report, , vol. 56(4), pages 464-483, November.
    2. Muhammad Nadeem Mirza & Hussain Abbas & Muhammad Qasim Nizamani, 2020. "Evaluating China’s Soft Power Discourse: Assumptions, Strategies, and Objectives [Évaluation du discours sur le soft power de la Chine: hypothèses, stratégies et objectifs]," Post-Print halshs-03200824, HAL.
    3. Jiatao Li & Ari Van Assche & Lee Li & Gongming Qian, 2022. "Foreign direct investment along the Belt and Road: A political economy perspective," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 53(5), pages 902-919, July.
    4. Heng Wang, 2021. "The Future of the BRI: A New Context and New Issues," Journal of International Economic Law, Oxford University Press, vol. 24(4), pages 799-803.
    5. P. Terrence Hopmann, 1995. "Two Paradigms of Negotiation: Bargaining and Problem Solving," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 542(1), pages 24-47, November.
    6. Wang, Xin & Yang, Jianxun & Zhou, Qi & Liu, Miaomiao & Bi, Jun, 2022. "Mapping the exchange between embodied economic benefits and CO2 emissions among Belt and Road Initiative countries," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 307(C).
    7. Atif Saleem Butt & Hamad Hassan Shah & Ahmad Bayiz Ahmad, 2021. "Exploring the Potential Challenges of Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Supply Chains: South Asian Perspective," Transportation Journal, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 60(3), pages 307-338, June.
    8. Mostafa Emrul Wahid & Arifin Sultana & Aditi Chakrovorty, 2020. "Belt And Road Initiative Of China: Perspective Of Bangladesh," Noble International Journal of Social Sciences Research, Noble Academic Publsiher, vol. 5(6), pages 95-101, June.
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