Between the Dragon and the West: How Should Bangladesh Navigate a Changing World?

Siam Ahmed · 8/30/2026

As China, Russia, Iran, North Korea and Belarus deepen their economic and strategic cooperation, Bangladesh faces a new geopolitical challenge. The global balance of power is changing rapidly. China, Russia, Iran, North Korea and Belarus are developing stronger economic, military and diplomatic connections. While they are not forming a formal alliance, their growing cooperation is creating an alternative network that can reduce the impact of Western pressure and sanctions. This emerging network is built on practical interests. These countries are expanding trade, using alternative payment systems, sharing military resources and supporting one another diplomatically. Their cooperation allows them to reduce dependence on Western financial and political systems. China and Russia are at the centre of this changing geopolitical landscape. Their economic relationship has grown significantly in recent years. Russia supplies China with oil, gas and other resources, while China provides machinery, industrial goods and other products. Their political and military cooperation has also become stronger. Russia has also strengthened its ties with Iran and North Korea. Iran has been linked to Russia’s use of Iranian-designed drones, while North Korea has reportedly supplied ammunition and missiles. Belarus has provided Russia with logistical and diplomatic support. For these countries, such cooperation offers clear benefits. Russia gains access to important military and economic resources, Iran gains economic and strategic advantages, and North Korea receives food, fuel, foreign currency and technical support. Together, these relationships make it easier for them to deal with international pressure. What Does This Mean for Bangladesh? Bangladesh cannot ignore these changes. The country has important economic and diplomatic relationships with the United States and European countries, while China and R