Dhaka:President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for stronger ties between Bangladesh and China, emphasizing the need for increased Chinese investment in critical sectors to support economic development, industrialization, and technological progress in Bangladesh. The call was made during a courtesy meeting at Bangabhaban with Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, President Alamgir highlighted the significance of China as a trusted ally and strategic partner, underlining the importance of expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. He referenced recent initiatives, such as the framework agreement for the Mongla Port Modernization and Expansion Project and the China Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ), as vital to enhancing connectivity and economic growth in Bangladesh.
During the meeting, the President acknowledged the proposals by Chinese President Xi Jinping to expand connectivity through projects like the Kunming-Chattogram corridor and the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor. He also extended an invitation to President Xi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time, while advocating for increased Chinese investment in Bangladesh to promote technology transfer and job creation.
In response, Minister Liu Haixing assured ongoing Chinese support in various sectors, including renewable energy, education, and cultural exchanges. The President expressed appreciation for China's contributions to projects like the Bangladesh-China Friendship General Hospital and sought further assistance in facilitating the repatriation of Rohingyas to Myanmar, to which Liu confirmed China's continued cooperation.
President Alamgir reflected on the historic visits to China by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, which laid the groundwork for the enduring relationship between the two nations. He also mentioned recent diplomatic engagements, including his own visit to China and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's meetings with Chinese leaders, which have contributed to strengthening bilateral relations.
Minister Liu recognized the foundation of diplomatic ties established during President Ziaur Rahman's tenure and expressed optimism about further strengthening these relationships under Prime Minister Rahman's leadership. The meeting concluded with President Alamgir wishing Minister Liu continued success and good health.
The Chinese delegation included notable figures such as Liu Yuyin, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh, and Peng Xiubin, Director-General of the Bureau of Southeast and South Asian Affairs of the CPC Central Committee's International Department. The meeting was attended by high-ranking Bangladeshi officials, including State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam and Foreign Ministry Secretary Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury.