“We will implement the Teesta project at any cost,” says Bangladesh Prime Minister Tariq Rahman.

DHAKA: Bangladesh Prime Minister Tariq Rahman said on Monday that the “national priority” Teesta Barag master plan will be implemented “at all costs”, days after Dhaka and Beijing agreed to work on managing the Teesta and other rivers – most of which flow upstream in India – and Beijing stressed that their “cooperation does not target any third party”.

During his visit to China last week, Beijing assured Tariq of its unwavering support, “no matter how the world changes,” and at a press conference on June 26, when asked about the Teesta River projects in relation to India, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Gu Jiaqun said: “I would like to stress that the cooperation between China and Bangladesh does not target any third party.” “The government is committed to solving the country’s long-term water management challenges through significant investments in rivers, canals and irrigation infrastructure,” Tariq said.

Tariq said water remains one of the most pressing concerns for people in Rajshahi and Rangpur districts – bordering India’s northeastern region – and “we are working relentlessly to address these problems.” At the regular press conference, Giaccon also said: “The comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation of the Teesta River is a livelihood project to which the Bangladesh side attaches great importance.” Tariq said that the BNP government has initiated plans to build Padma Barrage where excess water during monsoon will be stored and used during the dry season for agriculture.