Bangladesh Refuses China’s Pressure Over Textbook Maps – Diplomatic Tensions Rise

Dhaka: Two pieces of information included in Bangladesh’s books have caused tension in China. China requested changes, but Bangladesh refused, stating that the books had already been printed and could not be altered. This has angered China, while Bangladesh questions why China is reacting so strongly to the truth.

What Happened?

Neighboring Bangladesh has been challenging China. After Sheikh Hasina’s government changed, an interim government was formed in Bangladesh, which now sees China as an adversary. At the same time, Bangladesh has been strengthening ties with Pakistan and China, particularly favoring Pakistan over China.

Now, a recent action by Bangladesh has created significant tension for China and even provoked opposition from it.

The controversy stems from the maps used on the website of Bangladesh’s Land Survey Department and printed in school textbooks. Specifically, the maps recognize Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as parts of India, while also identifying Hong Kong and Taiwan as independent nations.

Why is China Angry?

China claims Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as its own, despite them being part of India. Similarly, China does not recognize Hong Kong and Taiwan as independent nations, insisting they are part of its territory.

However, the maps used in Bangladesh’s official survey website and textbooks explicitly state that Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin belong to India, while Hong Kong and Taiwan are separate countries.

These details were included in:

1. A map in the Grade 4 textbook representing the Asian region, where Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin are shown as Indian territories.
2. A Grade 10 textbook, which classifies Hong Kong and Taiwan as independent countries.

This has deeply upset China, leading President Xi Jinping’s administration to exert diplomatic pressure on Bangladesh through its Foreign Ministry. China demanded that these details be corrected immediately and sent an official request to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education and the National Curriculum & Textbook Board.

Bangladesh’s Response

Despite the pressure, Bangladesh refused to comply, stating,
"The books have already been printed, and making changes now would be impossible. Reprinting new books would require significant funding. Therefore, please do not press us to change the information. We will consider adjustments in the future."

This response has further angered China, creating diplomatic friction between the two nations.