Dhaka: Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir emphasized the importance of investment in transport infrastructure, aviation, and digital networks to spur economic growth and regional connectivity, while advocating for stronger Bangladesh-China cooperation via knowledge sharing and institutional partnerships.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kobir made these remarks during the opening session of the "Comparative Governance Forum 2026", held at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) auditorium. The event, organized jointly by BIISS and China's Fudan University's School of International Relations and Public Affairs (SIRPA), aims to explore collaborative opportunities between the two nations.
Kobir highlighted Bangladesh's strategic location as a pivotal factor in enhancing regional connectivity and expanding cooperation in trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchanges. He welcomed increased collaboration with China and other international partners to advance sustainable infrastructure, aviation, tourism, and innovation for the mutual benefit of the involved populations.
He also pointed out that future prosperity will rely on economic growth as well as the quality of institutions, social resilience, and international cooperation. Kobir underscored the growing influence of Global South countries in shaping global governance and sustainable development, advocating for an inclusive, rules-based international system that addresses the aspirations of all nations.
Addressing the ceremony were notable figures including Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, Fudan University Vice-President Professor Chen Zhimin, and BIISS Director General Major General Ridwanur Rahman. Kobir reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to multilateralism and peaceful dialogue, asserting that lasting progress is achieved through investments in knowledge, trust, and partnerships founded on mutual respect.
He further emphasized the significance of comparative governance, suggesting that Bangladesh can learn from China's remarkable development over the past four decades while sharing its own governance and public policy strengths. Kobir defined comparative governance as the adaptation of successful experiences to national realities and priorities rather than wholesale adoption of another country's model.
Kobir described China as a developmental success story, having lifted nearly 800 million people out of extreme poverty through sustained reforms and making advances in electric vehicles, solar energy, advanced manufacturing, and scientific research. He expressed optimism about the future of Bangladesh-China relations, which could unlock new economic, trade, technology, infrastructure, and connectivity opportunities over the next 50 years.
Discussions on zero-tariff access, manufacturing cooperation, supply chain relocation, and partnerships in advanced technology-based industries could create employment opportunities and diversify Bangladesh's exports. Kobir also expressed optimism over the recent meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Chinese President Xi Jinping, predicting further strengthening of bilateral relations.
The adviser acknowledged the evolving "Bangladesh-China Community with a Shared Future for the New Era" as a significant advancement in bilateral relations. He also noted that global strategic competition, rapid technological transformation, climate change, and evolving geopolitical realities require mutual respect, cooperation, and experience exchange.
Kobir advocated for strengthening democratic institutions, modernizing public administration, and accelerating digital transformation to improve governance and public service delivery. He praised the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BIISS and Fudan University as a milestone in long-term academic and policy cooperation.
On climate change, Kobir commended Bangladesh's international recognition for disaster risk reduction and climate resilience, while emphasizing the need for enhanced climate finance, technology transfer, and greater support for vulnerable developing countries.