Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is set to visit China on March 26, a move anticipated to elevate Bangladesh-China relations, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced today. “On March 27, Prof Yunus will address the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference focusing on the changing role of Asia in the world,” Alam stated during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Yao Wen met with Chief Adviser Prof Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna to discuss the upcoming China visit. Alam highlighted the significance of the Boao Forum for Asia, often referred to as the Davos of the East, where top leaders and CEOs from Asia and around the world convene. On the sidelines of the forum, Prof Yunus is expected to meet with CEOs of several companies.
The first bilateral meeting between Prof Yunus and Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled for March 28 in Beijing. The meeting will address issues of mutual interest, with Bangladesh aiming to transform itself into a manufacturing hub. “They (China) think that this would be the most important visit by the Bangladeshi leader,” Alam remarked, emphasizing the potential for Chinese companies to relocate factories to Bangladesh.
On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last year, Prof Yunus discussed with the Chinese foreign minister the prospect of Chinese investment in Bangladesh’s solar energy sector. In response to his invitation, two Chinese companies, including Longi, a leading supplier of solar PV solutions, plan to establish offices and manufacturing plants in Bangladesh.
During the visit, Prof Yunus will also deliver a lecture at Peking University, where he will receive an honorary doctorate degree. Additionally, he will tour Chinese Hi-Tech parks. Alam reiterated Bangladesh’s intent to invite Chinese investment to revolutionize its manufacturing sector.
The Chinese envoy apprised Prof Yunus that Chinese companies have increased their investments in Bangladesh since August 5 last year. “We hope that more Chinese companies will come to Bangladesh with their investment after the visit (of Prof Yunus),” Alam added. Prof Yunus is also expected to engage with Chinese hospital chains to explore joint venture opportunities in Bangladesh’s healthcare sector.