Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to embark on an official visit to China on 26 March, aiming to enhance Bangladesh-China relations to new heights.
During the trip, Professor Yunus will hold his first official bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 28 March.
Discussions will centre on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and industrial development, according to Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, who disclosed the details on Sunday.
On 27 March, the Chief Adviser will address the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), a prestigious economic conference often dubbed the “Davos of the East.”
The event gathers top Asian leaders, global business executives, and policymakers to discuss Asia’s increasing significance in the global economy.
“Bangladesh seeks to deepen its economic ties with China to position itself as a global manufacturing hub,” the press secretary stated. He also noted that China regards this visit as one of the most significant by a Bangladeshi leader.
The Chief Adviser’s visit is considered crucial for attracting Chinese companies to relocate their manufacturing facilities to Bangladesh and increasing Chinese investment in key sectors.
Previously, Dr Yunus underscored the importance of Chinese investment in Bangladesh’s solar energy industry, raising the issue with the Chinese Foreign Minister at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York last year.
Following these discussions, two major Chinese firms, including Longi-one of the world’s largest solar PV manufacturers-are now preparing to set up offices and production plants in Bangladesh.
During his visit, Professor Yunus will also engage with CEOs of Chinese multinational corporations on the sidelines of the Boao Forum to attract further investments in Bangladesh’s industrial and technology sectors.
As part of his itinerary, the Chief Adviser will deliver a lecture at Peking University (PKU), where he will be awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his contributions to economic and social development.
Additionally, he will visit China’s high-tech industrial parks to explore potential collaborations in innovation-driven industries.
In an effort to improve Bangladesh’s healthcare sector, Dr Yunus will hold discussions with leading Chinese hospital chains, inviting them to establish hospitals in Bangladesh through joint ventures.
Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, highlighted that Chinese investment in Bangladesh has surged, particularly since 5 August last year.
“We anticipate an even greater influx of Chinese companies investing in Bangladesh following this visit. The scope of Bangladesh-China economic cooperation will expand significantly,” Alam added.
