A six-member Chinese delegation, led by Li Qun, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, recently visited Panam City in Sonargaon to strengthen cultural exchange and cooperation between China and Bangladesh.

During the visit on Saturday, the delegation was accompanied by Narayanganj Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah, Regional Director of the Department of Archaeology (Dhaka and Mymensingh divisions) Afroza Khan Mita, Sonargaon Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Rahman, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Manjurul Morshed, and other police and administrative officials.

The visit aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration in heritage conservation and cultural preservation, according to a Facebook post shared by Panam Nagar Sonargaon.

Sharing the post regarding the visit of the Chinese delegation on Sunday, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki wrote on his Facebook: “Something great must happen soon! Panam Nagar is at the centre of our vision.”

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Panam City, a historical site in Sonargaon, was once a thriving trading hub during the Bengal Sultanate and later under Mughal rule. Known for its unique blend of Mughal and colonial-era architecture, the city remains a significant heritage site in Bangladesh.

Over the years, however, it faced threats from urban encroachment and environmental degradation, making conservation efforts crucial.

China and Bangladesh have previously cooperated in cultural preservation, and experts believe that increased collaboration could aid in restoring and maintaining the rich history of Panam City.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Panam City will be open for visitors from Monday to Saturday, between 10 am and 4:30 pm, with a short break from 1:15 pm to 1:30 pm; and on Fridays, visiting hours will be from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. The site will remain closed on Sundays as part of the weekly holiday.