Chinese envoy calls on Tarique

Diplomatic Correspondent :

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral and party-to-party relations.

During the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on a range of issues, including China–Bangladesh relations and cooperation between the Communist Party of China and the BNP. Ambassador Yao expressed deep condolences over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, BNP chairperson and former prime minister of Bangladesh.

He described China and Bangladesh as Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partners, noting that since the establishment of diplomatic relations the two countries have consistently respected each other, upheld equality and pursued mutually beneficial cooperation. He said this partnership has set an example for relations between nations.

Ambassador Yao also highlighted the long-standing friendly ties between the Communist Party of China and the BNP, adding that China remains ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with the party to further elevate China–Bangladesh friendship.

Referring to Bangladesh’s upcoming general election, he said it is an internal matter of the country and reiterated China’s longstanding principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states, expressing confidence that Bangladesh would be able to hold the election smoothly.

In response, Tarique Rahman reaffirmed the BNP’s firm commitment to the one-China principle and expressed gratitude for China’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development. He described China as a trustworthy friend and reliable partner of Bangladesh.

Rahman said the BNP remains committed to strengthening friendship between the two parties and the two countries, with the aim of bringing greater benefits to the people of both nations.