Victory strengthens Hasina's foreign policy hand

Shortly after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's record third successive win in Bangladesh's general elections, both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping rushed to congratulate her effusively.

The Iron Lady, who vanquished her domestic opponents on Dec. 31 through a mix of economic development and tight repression, is having the best of both worlds. In a South Asia hobbled by incessant struggle between India and China, she has positioned herself adroitly and, uniquely among the region's smaller powers, she is reaping the benefits of endorsements from both rival Asian giants.