Staff Reporter :
In a recent exclusive interview with Xinhua, Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, highlighted the strong ties between Bangladesh and China, expressing optimism about the future of bilateral relations.
“It is very important that we see China as a close friend,” Yunus stated, reflecting on the historical strength of their partnership. “Our relationship has remained strong over the years. Our business ties are robust, and
we benefit greatly from our collaboration with China.”
Yunus emphasised his hopes that relations between the two countries would enter a new phase of development. “Everyone in Bangladesh is inspired by China’s achievements,” he noted.
The interim government’s mission, according to Yunus, is to rebuild a new Bangladesh, drawing lessons from China’s successful development model.
The Chief Adviser also commended China’s efforts in poverty reduction, noting that while many countries focus solely on GDP growth, they often fail to address the needs of ordinary people.
“China, however, has prioritised improving the lives of low-income groups, which is why it has been so successful in rapidly reducing poverty.”
Trade and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and China have witnessed significant growth in recent years. China has remained Bangladesh’s largest trading partner for the past 15 years.
Yunus pointed out that nearly 1,000 Chinese enterprises now operate in Bangladesh, generating over 550,000 jobs.
“The two countries have established strong cooperative ties, yielding many positive outcomes,” Yunus remarked. “Bangladesh’s imports from China continue to rise, particularly in industrial-use products.”
Looking ahead, Yunus underscored the potential for further economic collaboration.
“Bangladesh and China share significant economic complementarities, and there is substantial untapped potential for cooperation. I hope more Chinese investors will come to Bangladesh and collaborate with local partners to explore broader markets.”
A recent initiative saw the first group of Bangladeshi patients, doctors, and travel agencies visit Kunming in China for medical check-ups and treatment, marking the beginning of medical tourism between the two nations.
Yunus expressed hope that Bangladesh could learn from China’s healthcare expertise to build a more robust healthcare system for its people.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, as well as the China-Bangladesh Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Yunus highlighted the long history of friendly exchanges between the two nations, referencing the legacy of Monk Xuanzang’s visits to Bangladesh and the contributions of Buddhist scholar Atisha Dipankar in China.
“Bangladesh benefits greatly from its cooperation with China,” Yunus stated. “We have the potential to create not just a rapidly developing economy but an inclusive one where everyone participates.”
He believes the next phase of bilateral relations will extend beyond economic collaboration, incorporating cultural exchanges.
“We look forward to expanding cooperation into broader areas. Our aim is to ensure that our shared journey continues, working together to achieve the goals we strongly believe in.”
Reflecting on the past 50 years of relations, Yunus concluded, “The next 50 years will be even more exciting.”
With a clear vision for the future, Yunus expressed his hopes for continued cooperation and growth between the two nations.
After concluding his four-day visit to China, Professor Yunus returned home on Saturday.
