Diplomatic Correspondent :
Chief Adviser to the Interim Government, Dr Muhammad Yunus, is set to embark on his first bilateral visit to China today (Wednesday), marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.
Scheduled to take place from 26 to 29 March, the visit aims to strengthen political and economic ties as Bangladesh and China prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
Diplomatic sources suggest that Bangladesh seeks to reinforce its strategic partnership with China through discussions on trade, investment, and political collaboration.
Meanwhile, China views this visit as an opportunity to deepen economic cooperation and reaffirm Bangladesh’s commitment to the One-China Policy. The visit highlights Bangladesh’s growing significance within China’s regional diplomatic and economic strategies.
At a media briefing on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin emphasised the importance of the Chief Adviser’s upcoming visit.
“China was one of the first countries to extend support following the formation of the interim government, sending a 10-member medical team to assist those injured during the July anti-discrimination movement.
This visit will be a key moment in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations, strengthening bilateral ties, and addressing issues such as the Rohingya crisis,” he stated.
Regarding the expected outcomes of the visit, he added, “Several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed, covering areas such as human resource development, economic and technical cooperation, cultural and sports collaboration, and media partnerships. Announcements related to economic zones, investment, and trade may also be made.”
When asked about military cooperation, the Foreign Secretary confirmed that discussions on the matter would take place, affirming that “China is an important friend, and our relationship is mutually valued.”
He also noted that Dr Yunus’ meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping would not have a fixed agenda but mentioned that the Teesta river management issue could be raised during discussions. Additionally, Bangladesh intends to seek China’s perspective on Myanmar and the Rohingya crisis during the visit.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1975, Bangladesh and China have built a strong relationship based on economic collaboration and infrastructure development. Over the decades, China has emerged as Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a key contributor to its major infrastructure projects, including the Padma Bridge rail link and the Karnaphuli Tunnel.
As the two nations approach the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations, the visit is expected to pave the way for a new phase of engagement.
Sources indicate that China may encourage Bangladesh to participate in President Xi Jinping’s Global Development Initiative (GDI), which aligns with the broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Bangladesh may acknowledge the GDI as a complementary framework to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without making an outright commitment to joining.
According to the Foreign Ministry, the Chief Adviser will depart for Hainan Province on the afternoon of 26 March aboard a chartered flight provided by China. On 27 March, he will attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference, an alliance of 25 countries from Asia and Australia. Following this, he will travel to Beijing.
On 28 March, Dr Yunus will meet President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Their discussions will encompass economic cooperation and trade relations, industrial relocation and investment opportunities, renewable energy projects, defence collaboration, geopolitical concerns, regional stability, and efforts to repatriate the Rohingya refugees.
After the meeting, Dr Yunus will take part in an event titled Investment Dialogue with Chinese Business Leaders, aimed at attracting Chinese investment to Bangladesh.
He will also participate in three roundtable discussions focusing on sustainable infrastructure and energy investment, manufacturing and market opportunities and social business, youth entrepreneurship, and the World of Three Zeros.
On 29 March, Peking University will confer an Honorary Doctorate upon the Chief Adviser. Following the award ceremony, he will deliver a speech to the assembled dignitaries.
In the afternoon, he will give an exclusive interview to China Media Group (CMG), a leading Chinese media organisation, where he will discuss various aspects of the Bangladesh-China relationship, outline a future roadmap, and share Bangladesh’s stance on current global affairs.
Dr Yunus’s visit comes at a time of rapidly shifting global geopolitics, with Bangladesh carefully navigating its relationships with China, India, and Western nations. While China remains a key economic partner, Bangladesh has consistently maintained a non-aligned foreign policy, balancing its diplomatic engagements with major global powers.
