India Secures Operational Rights of Bangladesh’s Mongla Port

India has successfully secured operational rights to a terminal at Mongla port, Bangladesh’s largest seaport, which is a significant strategic win that increases India’s maritime influence in the region and is part of its border strategy against China. The deal, managed by Indian Port Global Limited (IPGL), follows previous successful bids for ports in Iran and Myanmar, signaling India’s increasing investment in port management.

The management of the Mongla port terminal is expected to boost India’s trade connectivity and regional influence, with Bangladesh granting India access to both the Chittagong and Mongla ports in 2018. This move is crucial as China has been actively expanding its maritime influence in the Indian Ocean through its Maritime Silk Road initiative, investing in multiple ports. Bangladesh’s inclusion in China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2016 has also led to significant Chinese investments in the country.

For Bangladesh, balancing relationships with both China and India is crucial, as evident in recent visits by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to both countries. India operating the Mongla Port will enhance bilateral trade and provide landlocked northeast India with alternative maritime trade access through Kolkata port, improving trade efficiency. Overall, the strategic significance of India’s operational rights at Mongla port highlights the evolving dynamics in the region and India’s efforts to counter China’s influence.

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