China to support Bangladesh in countering misinformation

China will share its own strategy in countering false information with Bangladesh, a nation that is witnessing political turmoil since ex-PM Sheikh Hasina escaped to India on August 5, 2024, amid severe protests against her government.

According to an official of the information and broadcasting ministry, who wished to remain anonymous, on 21 May, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, sent a letter to Information Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam, proposing collaboration to tackle disinformation regarding Bangladesh's political landscape after the mass uprising, reported The Business Standard.

The interim government in Bangladesh has frequently accused media outlets in India and other nations of spreading false information about the country.

A ministry official, on condition of anonymity, told The Business Standard the letter from the Chinese embassy expressed a willingness to work together with the information ministry through a coordinated initiative.

He said, "The letter mentioned that China is aware of the false information being spread on various international media and online platforms regarding Bangladesh's political situation following the July mass uprising, and that China itself constantly faces similar challenges."

"China employs various strategies to counter misinformation globally, which could also be effective for Bangladesh. Therefore, a seminar has been proposed to be jointly organised by both countries, through which relevant officials from both sides can discuss their approaches and exchange ideas to become more enriched and effective," the official said, quoting from the focus group discussion report.