This incident is not as simple as one might think.
The Chinese ambassador's remarks were very cautious and this statement has made China's attitude perfectly clear. There must be a reason why the Chinese ambassador made this statement in public. It means that things have developed to the point where the ambassador needs to say these things in public. It is no longer useful to speak in private.
Perhaps the Bangladeshi government has already chosen its side, most likely the US-India side.
we will continue to hold our non-aligned policy
Bangladesh to continue following non-aligned foreign policy: FM (msn.com)
Bangladesh, May 11 -- Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul on Tuesday said Bangladesh maintained a non-aligned and balanced foreign policy and it will decide what to do following that principles.
"We're an independent and sovereign State. We decide our foreign policy. But yes, any country can uphold its position," he told reporters adding that they see with respect what others say.
Read: Beijing wants Dhaka not to join Quad
The Foreign Minister made the remarks when his comments sought on Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming's remarks on "Quad" and Bangladesh.
"Naturally, he (Ambassador) represents a country. They can say what they want. Maybe they don't want it (Bangladesh's joining Quad),"
Dr Momen said, adding that no one from the organisation that was mentioned did not approach Bangladesh.
"The comment has been an advanced one," said the Foreign Minister.
Dr Momen said many people said many things in the past but Bangladesh is guided by its principled position.
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He said they will decide following the foreign policy principles considering the interest of people and the country. "
We'll continue to do it (maintaining non-aligned and balanced foreign policy)."
"What he (Ambassador) said it's fine. We've nothing to say about it," Dr Momen added.
Chinese Ambassador Li Jiming on Monday said Bangladesh's relations with China will "substantially get damaged" if Bangladesh joins "Quad", a US-led initiative.
The envoy said obviously it will not be a good idea for Bangladesh to participate in this small club of four countries because it will substantially damage the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
"So, we don't like to see any form of participation by Bangladesh to this small group of countries," said Ambassador Li.
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He termed "Quad" a military alliance aiming against China's resurgence and its relationship with neighbouring countries.
The US, India, Japan and Australia are part of an informal strategic alliance - the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad as it is known.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from United News of Bangladesh.