On Wednesday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged China to extend its cooperation in the economic advancement of Bangladesh's southern region.
This request was made during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen at the Prime Minister's official residence, Ganabhaban, as reported by PM's speechwriter M Nazrul Islam.
Prime Minister Hasina emphasized that the Awami League is the only government that has taken substantial measures to develop this vulnerable region. She highlighted the establishment of direct road connectivity to the south via the Padma Bridge as a significant milestone.
China's role as a pivotal development partner was reiterated, with Sheikh Hasina expressing optimism for stronger future collaborations. She particularly mentioned the strategic importance of the Payra deep seaport and its potential utility for China.
Addressing the environmental challenges faced by the southern region due to its major rivers and heightened vulnerability to climate change, the Prime Minister affirmed the government's prioritization of its development.
PM Hasina wants Russian Rosatom to build another nuclear power plant at Rooppur
Reflecting on the national election earlier this year, she described it as a step towards forming a sustainable government, thereby ensuring stability within the country. Sheikh Hasina conveyed her government's commitment to continuing the nation's developmental trajectory, hoping for China's continued support as a trusted ally.
Ambassador Yao Wen assured China's commitment to supporting Bangladesh in realizing the vision of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, as carried forward by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina towards achieving a 'Smart Bangladesh' by 2041.
He highlighted the potential for elevating bilateral relations, especially in trade, investment, and people-to-people contact, with the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to China in July expected to be a significant step in this direction.
China is an important dev and strategic partner of Bangladesh: PM Hasina
Furthermore, the ambassador encouraged the use of the inaugural Bangladesh Biman’s Dhaka-Beijing flight for the Prime Minister's visit and expressed China's eagerness to contribute to Bangladesh's sectors such as agriculture, green energy, ICT, and manufacturing.
Interest was also shown in enhancing metro rail cooperation, increasing imports of mango, jute, and leather products from Bangladesh, and providing training for youths, women leaders, and government officials.
Highlighting the strong ties between the Awami League and the Communist Party of China, Yao Wen lauded Sheikh Hasina's global leadership and reiterated China's commitment to assisting in the Rohingya repatriation efforts.
The ambassador concluded by requesting specific proposals from the Prime Minister for further development of Bangladesh's southern region, underscoring China's readiness to support these initiatives.