United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh and China on Sunday expressed a shared commitment to transforming recent high-level discussions into actionable projects across a range of sectors, including infrastructure, trade, healthcare, education and culture. “Our top priority now is to move forward with the plans we discussed during the China visit,” Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus when Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen met at the State Guest House Jamuna to review the outcomes of his (Dr Yunus) recent visit to China and outline next steps for accelerating Bangladesh-China cooperation. “We want to make sure the momentum is not lost,” Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir quoted the Chief Adviser as saying. The Chinese Ambassador echoed the Chief Adviser’s sentiment, saying, “This is also our top priority. We had one of the highest-level agenda meetings in China, and we do not want to wait another two to three years just to sign agreements—we want to implement them quickly.” One of the topics discussed was the development of the Mongla and Anowara economic zones. BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun informed that preparations are underway and, once completed, the zones will be handed over to developers to begin implementation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to launching a long-term, 50-year master plan on water management, including work on the Teesta River system. French Ambassador Masdupuy welcomes Rani Yan to Embassy The two sides also discussed a plan to procure four new vessels from China, with the Chinese side assuring that the process would be completed by June this year. The Chinese Ambassador also said that China’s Commerce Minister will visit Bangladesh soon, accompanied by a 100-member delegation of investors aiming to explore new investment opportunities. “We will organise a mini investment summit focused on Chinese investors to strengthen sector-specific collaboration,” said BIDA Chairman Ashik. Healthcare cooperation featured prominently in the discussion. The Chinese side reaffirmed their commitment to building a 1,000-bed hospital in Bangladesh, as initially proposed during the China visit. They also highlighted ongoing support in establishing a specialised burn unit in Chittagong. The Chinese Ambassador informed that progress is being made to launch a direct Kunming–Chittagong flight, and efforts are underway to expedite medical visas for Bangladeshi patients. The Chief Adviser stressed the importance of cultural exchange, proposing the establishment of a Chinese Cultural Centre and Language Institute to allow young Bangladeshis to engage more closely with Chinese language and culture. The Chief Adviser also raised the possibility of expanding jute exports to China and urged greater Chinese investment in the locomotive sector. He proposed setting up locomotive manufacturing and maintenance hubs in both Chattogram and Syedpur, alongside capacity-building workshops and training programmes. Agricultural trade was another area of progress. Bangladesh will begin exporting mangoes to China this season, with jackfruit exports scheduled for next year. “I’ll send a basket of fresh mangoes to President Xi myself,” said Chief Adviser Dr Yunus. The meeting was also attended by Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, National Security Adviser Dr Khalliur Rahman, BIDA Chairman Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Special Assistant Faiz Taieb, Cabinet Secretary SiraZ Uuddin Miah and SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Friday sought a fifty-year master plan from China to manage the river and water system in Bangladesh, which is crisscrossed by hundreds of rivers. The chief adviser made the call when Water Resources Minister of China Li Guoying met him at a state guest house on the third day of his four-day visit to the Asian country. Prof Yunus praised the Chinese water and flood management system, saying the country has done wonders in managing some of the intractable water issues, CA’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. “We have the same problem that you have. So, we'll be happy if you share your experiences”, the chief adviser told the Chinese minister. “Bangladesh is a delta country; we have a country crisscrossed with hundreds of rivers. Water gives us life, but sometimes it becomes an enemy. Now that the population has increased manifold, we have to remain careful what kind of damages it causes to the ecosystem,” he added. Calling China the master of water management, the chief adviser said that Bangladesh has a lot to learn from the country and urged China to share the vision of President Xi Jinping in water management with the country. “We have come here to learn from you: how we can make water resources useful to people,” he said. Prof Yunus said that the increase of population and demand for development are people grabbing lands by riversides. Dhaka, Beijing sign 8 MoUs, 1 deal on economic, technical cooperation The same demand has increased in upper riparian India, he said, adding that siltation was also causing a problem creating land in the middle of rivers, sinking them sometimes, leading them to death. The Chinese minister acknowledged that China and Bangladesh share a similar challenge in water management. He promised technical support and expertise to Bangladesh. “To manage water is a key management issue for Bangladesh; China is facing similar challenges,” he said, acknowledging that 85 per cent of Bangladesh’s people live in flood-prone plains, which has made water management complicated for the country. He said that President Xi has put forward a master plan for China which the country was using to overcome the challenges in water management. “We need your help to design the plan for us,” the chief adviser said. He added that Bangladesh’s problem lies not just with one river but with the system. He mentioned the Teesta River system and cleaning the polluted water in rivers surrounding Dhaka for particular help. The chief adviser is currently on a four-day visit to China, holding meetings with Chinese leaders and investors to boost mutual cooperation with the country.

Bangladesh and China on Friday signed nine instruments, including the agreement on "economic and technical cooperation", between the two governments and other cooperation documents on development, translation and publication of classics, exchanges and cooperation on cultural heritage, news exchange and media and health sector. The two countries signed eight MoUs on translation and production of classics, exchanges and cooperation on cultural heritage, news exchange, media, sports and health sectors, Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. Besides, five announcements were made on the launching of formal negotiations on investment, the announcement of the commencement of the China Industrial Economic Zone, the signing of a commercial agreement for the modernisation and expansion of Mongla port, the building of a robot physiotherapy and rehabilitation centre, and the donation of a cardiac surgery vehicle, he said. The two sides spoke positively of the signing of the Implementation Plan of the MoU on Exchange of Hydrological Information of the Yarlung Zanbo-Jamuna River. Bangladesh welcomed Chinese companies to participate in the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP), according to the joint media statement issued after the bilateral meeting between Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Bangladesh welcomed Chinese companies to participate in the Mongla Port Facilities Modernization and Expansion Project, and stands ready to work with the Chinese side to further develop the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Chattogram. The two sides underscored the importance to initiate negotiations on the China-Bangladesh Free Trade Agreement at an early date and officially start negotiations on optimising the China-Bangladesh Investment Agreement. The two sides agreed to realise the early export of high-quality products of Bangladesh to China including fresh mangoes and other agricultural and aquatic produce as soon as possible. Beijing pledges $2.1 billion in investments, loans, grants for Bangladesh China welcomed Bangladesh to make full use of platforms such as the China International Import Expo, China-South Asia Expo, and China International Supply Chain Expo to expand cooperation with China. Bangladesh reaffirmed its readiness to create a favorable investment environment for Chinese companies. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in such areas as hydrological forecasting, flood prevention and disaster reduction, river dredging, integrated management of water resources, water resources development and related technology sharing. The two countries agreed to make concerted efforts to tackle climate change and tap the potential for blue economy cooperation. The two sides agreed to strengthen exchanges on maritime affairs and hold a new round of Dialogue on Maritime Cooperation at an appropriate time. They agreed to jointly celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the Year of China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchanges in 2025. The two sides agreed to deepen exchanges and cooperation on culture, tourism, media, education, health care and youth, and between local governments and think tanks, to enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples. Bangladesh expressed appreciation for the convenience provided by China for Bangladeshi patients to seek medical treatment in Yunnan Province, and commended the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and appreciates the Global Development Initiative. Bangladesh also takes note of the importance of the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping. Both sides agreed to strengthen international cooperation, promote unity and self-reliance among the Global South and jointly address global challenges. The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the founding of the United Nations. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter, the practice of true multilateralism and greater democracy in international relations. Both the countries will jointly advocate an equal and orderly multi-polar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation. They also agreed to keep strengthening coordination within the UN and other multilateral mechanisms and jointly safeguard the common interests of developing countries and uphold international fairness and justice. Chief Adviser Dr Yunus expressed his sincere appreciation to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Bangladeshi delegation, and invited the Chinese leadership to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time. Bangladesh appreciated China's constructive role in promoting peace talks on Myanmar and in promoting the resolution of the issue concerning the forcibly displaced people from the Rakhine State of Myanmar who have taken shelter in Bangladesh. China commended Bangladesh for providing humanitarian assistance for the displaced people from Rakhine State, and supported Bangladesh and Myanmar in finding among others a mutually acceptable solution through friendly consultations. China will continue to provide support for the repatriation to the best of its capabilities. At the invitation of the Secretary-General of the Boao Forum for Asia, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan, China from 26 to 27 March 2025, and then at the invitation of the Government of the People's Republic of China, the Chief Adviser is visiting Beijing from 27 to 29 March 2025. Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, met with Chief Adviser Professor Yunus on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan Province. Han Zheng, Vice President of the People's Republic of China also met with Chief Adviser Professor Yunus in Beijing. No meet with Yunus features in Modi's BIMSTEC schedule in Bangkok In a warm and friendly atmosphere, the two sides had in-depth exchanges of views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest and reached extensive consensus. Dr Yunus attended the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 and delivered a speech. The Chinese side welcomed the interim government of Bangladesh led by Professor Muhammad Yunus and noted the reform and progress made by the interim government since August 2024. The Bangladesh side thanked the Government of the People's Republic of China for welcoming the interim government of Bangladesh and extending necessary support to carry forward bilateral relations. Both sides reconfirmed equal commitment to nurturing the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership with utmost importance. They also agreed that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh 50 years ago, relations between the two countries have maintained healthy and stable development regardless of changes in the international and regional landscape. The two sides agreed to hold fast to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, carry forward their traditional friendship, deepen political mutual trust and synergy between development strategies, keep moving forward in the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and deliver greater benefits to the two countries and their peoples.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday left for China on four-day official visit through which Dr Yunus thinks the relationship between Bangladesh and China would further be deepened. A special China Southern flight carrying the Chief Adviser and his entourage left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 1pm. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen had a brief meeting with Chief Adviser Dr Yunus at the airport before his (CA) departure. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources; Road Transport and Bridges; and Railways Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, High Representative to Chief Adviser Khalilur Rahman, Principal Coordinator on SDGs Affairs and Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed and CA's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam are accompanying the Chief Adviser. Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md Nazmul Islam and Vice Governor of Hainan Province will receive the Chief Adviser upon his arrival at Qionghai Bo'ao International Airport at around 7pm, a senior official told UNB. "I will meet with President Xi Jinping. I will also meet with CEOs of major Chinese businesses," Dr Yunus said ahead of the visit. The bilateral meeting will be held at the Great Hall of China on March 28. Addressing the nation on Tuesday evening, Dr Yunus said the world's largest Chinese solar panel manufacturer Longji has expressed interest in setting up a factory in Bangladesh. "We are working with them. In addition, technical assistance, medical assistance, low-cost treatment and other issues will be discussed," he said, adding that they (China) want to import mangoes, jackfruit and guava from Bangladesh. "This will start very soon." Bangladesh and China are set to sign several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) as Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping prepare to hold a bilateral meeting in Beijing on March 28. The bilateral cooperation documents are likely to be signed in the areas of human resource development, economic and technical assistance, cultural and sports cooperation and cooperation between the media. Besides, announcements related to economy, investment and economic zones are likely to be made, said Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. The two leaders will discuss various strategic bilateral issues between Bangladesh and China, trade and investment promotion, cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy sectors, and resolving the Rohingya issue, among other matters of mutual interest between the two countries, said the Foreign Secretary. The Foreign Secretary said China is Bangladesh's best friend, closest neighbor, strategic partner and one of the largest commercial and development partners. Bangladesh and China enjoy excellent diplomatic relations, which are deepening, he said, adding that this year the two countries have undertaken programs to celebrate the 50 years of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations. The Foreign Secretary said the visit would add a new dimension in Dhaka-Beijing relations with further momentum. The Chief Adviser will attend roundtable discussions on Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy Investment; Bangladesh 2.0 Manufacturing and Market Opportunities; Social Business, Youth Entrepreneurship and the World of Three Zeros. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Sunday said Chief Adviser Prof Mohammad Yunus’ visit to China would be "very successful, productive and a milestone visit" with some announcements. Dr Yunus' scheduled visit to China from March 26-29 is going to be the “most important visit” by a Bangladesh leader over the last 50 years, as the two countries are eyeing to take the relations to a new height. “This is going to be the most important visit by a Bangladeshi leader in 50 years,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, quoting Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen who met Dr Yunus on March 16. Alam said a big focus will be given on relocation of Chinese factories to Bangladesh to make the country a manufacturing hub. Committed to advancing partnership with Bangladesh for peace, prosperity: Modi tells Dr Yunus "We want to create a revolution in the manufacturing sector," said the press secretary, adding that it helps create more jobs and boost exports from Bangladesh to the global market. He said there will be a series of engagements during the chief adviser's China visit. On the sidelines of the forum, Alam said, the chief adviser is likely to have meetings with CEOs of some companies. Dhaka and Beijing are eyeing stronger ties, marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations. The chief adviser will attend a programme on March 29 at Peking University and will return to Dhaka at night (same day). As per the plans, the chief adviser will first attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, South China's Hainan Province.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the relationship between Bangladesh and China would further be deepened through his four-day official visit that begins on Wednesday. "I am going to China on a four-day visit. I will meet with President Xi Jinping. I will also meet with CEOs of major Chinese businesses," he said ahead of the visit. The Chief Adviser is scheduled to leave Dhaka for China on Wednesday afternoon. Addressing the nation on Tuesday evening, Dr Yunus said the world's largest Chinese solar panel manufacturer Longji has expressed interest in setting up a factory in Bangladesh. "We are working with them. In addition, technical assistance, medical assistance, low-cost treatment and other issues will be discussed," he said, adding that they (China) want to import mangoes, jackfruit and guava from Bangladesh. "This will start very soon." Bangladesh and China are set to sign several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) as Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping prepare to hold a bilateral meeting in Beijing on March 28. The bilateral cooperation documents are likely to be signed in the areas of human resource development, economic and technical assistance, cultural and sports cooperation and cooperation between the media. Besides, announcements related to economy, investment and economic zones are likely to be made. Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin briefed reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday afternoon. MoFA Spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam, Directors General were present. The bilateral meeting will be held at the Great Hall of China. They will discuss various strategic bilateral issues between Bangladesh and China, trade and investment promotion, cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy sectors, and resolving the Rohingya issue, among other matters of mutual interest between the two countries, said the Foreign Secretary. He said China is Bangladesh's best friend, closest neighbor, strategic partner and one of the largest commercial and development partners. Bangladesh and China enjoy excellent diplomatic relations, which are deepening, he said, adding that this year the two countries have undertaken programs to celebrate the 50 years of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations. The Foreign Secretary said the visit would add a new dimension in Dhaka-Beijing relations with further momentum. The Chief Adviser will attend roundtable discussions on Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy Investment; Bangladesh 2.0 Manufacturing and Market Opportunities; Social Business, Youth Entrepreneurship and the World of Three Zeros. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Sunday said Chief Adviser Prof Mohammad Yunus’ visit to China would be "very successful, productive and a milestone visit" with some announcements. Dr Yunus' scheduled visit to China from March 26-29 is going to be the “most important visit” by a Bangladesh leader over the last 50 years, as the two countries are eyeing to take the relations to a new height. “This is going to be the most important visit by a Bangladeshi leader in 50 years,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, quoting Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen who met Dr Yunus on March 16. Bangladesh, China to sign key deals as Dr Yunus to meet Xi in Beijing on March 28 Alam said a big focus will be given on relocation of Chinese factories to Bangladesh to make the country a manufacturing hub. "We want to create a revolution in the manufacturing sector," said the press secretary, adding that it helps create more jobs and boost exports from Bangladesh to the global market. He said there will be a series of engagements during the chief adviser's China visit. On the sidelines of the forum, Alam said, the chief adviser is likely to have meetings with CEOs of some companies. Dhaka and Beijing are eyeing stronger ties, marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations. The chief adviser will attend a programme on March 29 at Peking University and will return to Dhaka at night (same day). As per the plans, the chief adviser will first attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, South China's Hainan Province. On March 27, Dr Yunus will participate in the inaugural plenary session of the BFA and Executive Vice President of the State Council will meet the Chief Adviser the same day. On August 25 last year, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen conveyed the Chinese leadership's invitation to Dr Yunus to visit China at his convenience. “China and Bangladesh are best friends and trustworthy partners. So, whatever change is taking place internationally or domestically in Bangladesh, our policy remains steadfast,” Ambassador Yao said recently, adding that no matter who forms the government China wants to be their partner and their policy is not related to any particular government. He said they believe their cooperation is for the benefit of all the Bangladeshi people and the people of China as well. BFA Secretary General Zhang Jun said with the theme "Asia in the changing World: Towards a shared Future," this year's event will focus on development, foster dialogue, explore innovative formats and value tangible outcomes, all aimed at promoting international development and cooperation. He said the theme is intended to reinvigorate multilateralism, promote openness and development, jointly respond to global challenges, and carry out the commitments of the UN Summit of the Future while focusing on the development of Asia. Many heads of international and regional organisations, ministerial-level officials, entrepreneurs of Fortune Global 500, and renowned experts and scholars have already confirmed their participation in the annual conference, Zhang said. He said the event will focus on four subject areas: building trust and promoting cooperation in a fast-changing world; rebalancing globalisation for inclusive development; accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals for more effective responses to global challenges; and strengthening AI application and governance for innovation-driven development.

Reflecting on global challenges, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Thursday said peace and security are collective responsibilities that demand inclusive economic frameworks and greater emphasis on empowering underrepresented groups, particularly the youth and women. Hossain made the remarks while delivering a keynote address at a seminar in the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (SIIS), China. The seminar titled "Our Shared Vision for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity" reflected on the common vision of Bangladesh and China for a secure and better world. Referring to the Rohingya crisis, Adviser Hossain stressed on creating a congenial atmosphere in Rakhine State for return of the Rohingyas. “Both Bangladesh and China have vital interests in resolution of the conflict, and we must cooperate wholeheartedly in bringing about the resolution," he said. The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Chen Dongxiao, president of SIIS, who highlighted the historic and evolving partnership between Bangladesh and China, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He expressed optimism about the event’s contribution to enhancing academic and research collaborations between China and Bangladesh, and the role of the two countries to furthering global peace and stability. Switzerland reaffirms support to Bangladesh during important phase of transition In his address, Adviser Hossain outlined a forward-looking vision for global peace, emphasising the significant role of economic cooperation as a cornerstone for sustainable development and stability. He highlighted the deep historical ties between Bangladesh and China, which dates back to ancient times and the evolution of relationship into a dynamic partnership through different mechanisms including the Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI). Hossain underscored the transformative role of China's development assistances and investments in Bangladesh’s various sectors which have significantly contributed to the country’s socio-economic development. He also drew attention to the importance of narrowing trade gaps and fostering regional connectivity to promote equitable growth. Hossain highlighted Bangladesh’s successful social initiatives, such as microcredit programmes, pioneered by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser of Bangladesh Government, which have empowered rural women and fostered social harmony, and called for similar transformative efforts to uplift the youth. Bangladesh urges global investors to grab opportunities it offers In order to realize the shared vision, Hossain underscored the need for working towards strengthening multilateral institutions, expanding investments, deepening people to people exchange and championing global trade system. The event brought together a distinguished group of participants, including scholars, diplomats, government officials, young researchers, media representatives, senior leadership and experts of SIIS, and officials from the Shanghai Foreign Affairs Office. The programme featured speeches from key participants, including remarks by Dr. Yang Jiemian, Director of the Academic Advisory Board at SIIS, and presentations by six renowned experts. These experts shared insights on topics ranging from economic globalisation to regional stability, triggering rich discussions during the interactive session that followed. The event concluded with closing remarks by Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md. Nazmul Islam and the President of SIIS. Adviser Hossain also visited a high-tech electric vehicle manufacturing plant in the outskirt of Shanghai where he witnessed the production line of electric vehicles. The plant produces around 500 EV units a day. He urged the Chinese company to consider establishing such a plant in Bangladesh. Acting Mayor of Shanghai also met the foreign adviser.  During the meeting, both of them underscored the need for enhanced business-to-business and people- to-people engagements between Dhaka and Shanghai. Foreign Secretary stresses economic ties, streamlined visa process in meeting with Kosovo Ambassador The acting mayor extended invitation to Bangladesh to participate at the “Shanghai Tourism Festival” to be held this year.  Hossain conveyed Bangladesh’s interest in participating the festival. The meeting ended with a lunch hosted by the acting mayor in honor of the adviser and his delegation.  Hossain also exchanged views with a delegation from the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce yesterday evening. During the discussion, they focused on relocation of Chinese manufacturing plants to Bangladesh, particularly to the Chinese SEZ in Chattogram, establishing air connectivity between Chattogram and Shanghai, and exchange and collaboration between the two Chambers.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's planned visit to China is set to strengthen the deep understanding, friendship, and vibrant partnership shared by both nations, signaling a renewed commitment to advancing their strategic cooperation. Bangladesh and China expressed optimism that the Foreign Adviser’s visit will pave the way for a "new chapter of cooperation" between Bangladesh and China. Fakhrul discusses bilateral issues with Chinese ambassador During the visit, the top diplomats of the two countries are expected to formally announce the inauguration of celebration of the 50th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador of China to Bangladesh Yao Wen met Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the Ministry on Thursday ahead of the Foreign Adviser’s visit to China scheduled for 20–24 January. The meeting mainly highlighted the preparation of Foreign Adviser’s visit on both sides.  It was underlined that the upcoming visit would "carry special significance" as it is the first official bilateral visit of Adviser Hossain this year.  The Ambassador expressed China’s sincere appreciation for Bangladesh’s unwavering support to One-China Policy.  He reaffirmed China’s firm respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and reiterated China’s continued support for Bangladesh’s stability, reforms, and democratic transition.  Chinese Embassy holds ‘Happy Chinese New Year Festival’ Temple Fair at Gulshan Society Lake Park The envoy emphasized that this visit would further cement the cooperative ties between the two nations. Ambassador Wen also underscored the importance of strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, with a particular focus on projects like the China Economic Zone in Chattogram and the enhancement of connectivity initiatives.  He also emphasized the importance of practical bilateral cooperation, particularly in sectors such as digital connectivity and port modernisation. Regional and global issues also featured in the discussions, notably the ongoing Rohingya crisis.  The Foreign Secretary conveyed Bangladesh’s deep appreciation for China’s active role in facilitating dialogue on the issue and sought China’s continued support in ensuring an early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.  Both sides expressed a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.  Environment Adviser seeks Chinese cooperation in air quality management The meeting also touched upon exchange of visits and agreed that such visits will further strengthen the bilateral relationship and contribute to greater cooperation in areas like trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming on Thursday termed the newly-built "Bangabandhu Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center" at Purbachal a "new icon” of the fruitful cooperation between Bangladesh and China. He said it is also a vivid epitome of the friendship between the two peoples, not only in the field of economic and trade cooperation, but also in the fight against the pandemic. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the exhibition centre virtually from her official residence Gonobhaban. Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi, Commerce Secretary Tapan Kanti Ghosh, Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau AHM Ahsan also joined the launching ceremony. On the occasion of the birth centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Exhibition Centre was named after him to honor the great contribution of Bangabandhu, said the Chinese envoy.

Terming China the largest trading partner of Bangladesh, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming on Wednesday said the Bangladesh-China relations have achieved a rapid development. "The political mutual trust between our two sides has continued to deepen, the cultural exchange and education cooperation as an integral part of our deeply-rooted bilateral relations, have been active and fruitful," he said. Currently, the envoy said, China has become one of the top destinations for Bangladeshi students to study abroad and students are one of the main cornerstones of the friendship between the two peoples. "All of you are well aware of the journey to development that our two countries are having together and shoulder to shoulder," said the Ambassador.

Distinguished Fellow of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya has said there is a full potential for Bangladesh-China relationship to be a prime mover for the economic and social transformation of Bangladesh in the next decade. He, however, said it will largely depend on how they prepare for it, address the prerequisites and be careful about the pitfalls which lie in their way. The economist said Bangladesh must insist that duty-free quota-free (DFQF) market access extended by China to Bangladesh has to be extended beyond the graduation (of Bangladesh from the LDC group). Also read: Rohingya Repatriation: Beijing assures to act as bridge to facilitate early results “Because, beyond graduation, we’ll still need market access support from our developing partners, including the South-South partners,” he said while addressing a virtual roundtable. Dr Debapriya hoped that China will declare that the duty-free quota-free market access will be available for Bangladesh, at least for the first nine years after the graduation. “The European Union and others are being persuaded to do so. The issue is on the table at the WTO. Thankfully, China, India and other southern countries are supporting us over there - the LDC group’s proposal,” he added. Due to the pandemic, the bilateral trade volume was dented with a 13.6% drop to 15.9 billion dollars last year. However, the “resilience and dynamism” of the two economies make it reasonable to expect a huge rebound this year. According to statistics from China Customs, the trade volume in the first four months of 2021 is 7.19 billion dollars with a 42.9% year-on increase. Also read: Never worry about any 'debt trap': Beijing to Dhaka China’s export to and import from Bangladesh stand at 6.84 billion and 350 million dollars, growing by 43.8% and 28.1% respectively. Last year, China granted 97% duty-free treatment to Bangladeshi products, which is seen as an important step towards a higher level of bilateral trade liberalization. Earlier, Dr Debapriya said, Bangladesh used to export over 5,000 goods and now another 3000 goods have been added to it. “So, we can export 8,256 items to the Chinese market, which is a great achievement.” He said the Bangladesh-China relationship needs to be understood in the global context and also in the regional context not only in the bilateral context. Debapriya said it is important that they get China more involved in creating the regional and global value chain in Bangladesh. “Bangladesh and China should be together in the global and regional value chain.” Also read: Experts for building brighter future keeping growing Dhaka-Beijing ties unaffected amidst geopolitics Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming delivered the keynote speech at the virtual roundtable titled “Bangladesh China Relations: Prognosis of the Future.” It was hosted by the Cosmos Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Cosmos Group, as part of its ongoing Ambassador’s Lecture Series. The opening remarks were delivered by the Cosmos Foundation Chairman, Enayetullah Khan. The session was chaired by Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, renowned scholar-diplomat and former Advisor on Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Caretaker Government. Ambassador (retd) Tariq A. Karim, CPD Distinguished Fellow Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, former Foreign Secretary Shamsher Chowdhury BB, Assistant Researcher of the Institute for International Studies at Yunnan University Dr Zou Yingmeng, Assistant Research Fellow at China Institute of International Studies Dr Ning Shengnan, former Ambassador Serajul Islam and Dhaka University Professor Dr Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir comprised the panel of discussants.