Keeping pace with the giants

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India and China are two emerging countries in terms of economy and population in Asia. They command more than 20 per cent of the world GDP. Their combined population is more than 2.6 billion which is 35 per cent of the total population of the world. China is very much adept in manufacturing; on the other hand, India is in providing services. China has built world class infrastructure like roads, ports, airports and energy systems to attract domestic and foreign investment for industrial growth. She invests her savings which is equal to 40 per cent of her GDP and India saves 24 per cent of her GDP to invest in industries and services. They are also advancing in technology or software industry, tourism and other sectors as well. So, it is conspicuous that the two countries are commanding a colossal portion of the world economy. Now the question is how a minnow like Bangladesh can stride with these giants rather than considering them rivals. Bangladesh has comparatively a small population, inadequate infrastructure, poorly skilled population and poor governance to move alongside China and India. But the issue here is more of a vision less of comparison. Bangladesh has a population of 160 million and one of the most fertile pieces of agricultural land. The country has the possibility with the other two giants to create a bright economic prospect for the people of this large region. Bangladesh needs to act in a way that prioritises the best national interest. Lord Palmerston's doctrine says that there are no permanent enemies or eternal allies and what is permanent is national interest. China, India and Bangladesh need huge energy for industrialisation and growth. They can invest in hydroelectric projects in the vicinity of Himalayas, they can share the waters of common rivers, like Brahmaputra, flowing through them for agriculture and industries. They have huge markets and they have cheap labour resources that can be effectively used to produce value added product cheaply. The collaboration can lead to penetration of markets in each other's country for promoting their products although there are some problems to establish the collaboration. There is asymmetrical economic development between China and India. Bangladesh has to work hard to keep pace with India and China. Still there is an undercurrent of rivalry between India China. However, if the positives out-weigh the negatives, a bright future is waiting for the economy of Bangladesh. Rabiul Jewel Student of The University of Dhaka jewel16ais@gmail.com