Dhaka, Beijing eye ‘new chapter of cooperation’
Staff Report :
Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain’s forthcoming visit to China aims to enhance mutual understanding, friendship, and the dynamic partnership between the two nations, reflecting a renewed commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation.
Both Bangladesh and China have expressed optimism that the visit will mark the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.
During the visit, senior diplomats from both countries are expected to formally announce the inauguration of celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ahead of the Foreign Adviser’s visit, scheduled for 20-24 January, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen met Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin at the Ministry on Thursday to discuss preparations, report UNB.
The meeting focused primarily on the arrangements for the visit, with both sides acknowledging its significance as the first official bilateral visit of Adviser Hossain in 2024.
The Ambassador conveyed China’s sincere appreciation for Bangladesh’s steadfast support for the One-China Policy. He also reaffirmed China’s respect for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterating continued support for Bangladesh’s stability, reforms, and democratic transition.
The envoy emphasised that this visit would further solidify the cooperative ties between the two nations.
Ambassador Wen also highlighted the importance of strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, with particular focus on key projects such as the China Economic Zone in Chattogram and broader connectivity initiatives.
Additionally, he stressed the need for practical bilateral cooperation, especially in digital connectivity and port modernisation.
Discussions also covered regional and global issues, including the ongoing Rohingya crisis.
The Foreign Secretary expressed Bangladesh’s deep appreciation for China’s role in facilitating dialogue on the issue and sought China’s continued support in ensuring the early repatriation of the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional peace and stability.
The meeting also touched upon the exchange of high-level visits, with both parties agreeing that such engagements would further strengthen bilateral relations and promote greater cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity.