Dhaka: Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today announced that the groundbreaking of the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Chattogram is a significant step toward realizing the outcomes of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's recent visit to China. "The groundbreaking of the CEIZ marks a key step to deliver the outcomes of Honorable Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to China," Yao stated during the ceremony, according to a press release issued by the Chinese Embassy here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ambassador emphasized that the economic zone would bolster Bangladesh's industrial and supply chains, boost export capacity, and create job opportunities for local residents. He expressed China's readiness to collaborate with Bangladesh in expediting the construction of the zone, attracting high-quality enterprises, and establishing the CEIZ as a landmark project under Belt and Road cooperation.
Ambassador Yao's visit to Chattogram included attending the groundbreaking ceremony and meeting with representatives of Chinese enterprises interested in setting up operations within the zone. The event saw participation from over 300 attendees, including notable figures such as Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin, and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun. Local dignitaries, residents, representatives from Chinese companies, and media personnel were also present.
Bangladeshi officials have hailed the CEIZ as a flagship initiative aimed at attracting foreign investment and accelerating the nation's industrialization. They expressed optimism that the zone would enhance practical cooperation between Bangladesh and China, address development challenges, and deliver tangible benefits to local communities.