Shanghai: A bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Shipping Ministry Adviser Brigadier General (R.) Dr. M Sakhawat Hussain and Chinese Transport Minister Liu Wei was held in Shanghai, China. The meeting focused on ongoing cooperation in the shipping sector, infrastructure development, and future areas of collaboration between the two countries.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, discussions included the progress of the Mongla Port Expansion and Modernization Project with Chinese assistance, the implementation of an ongoing agreement with China’s Exim Bank, and technical support related to the project. Both sides emphasized strengthening the long-standing friendly relations between Bangladesh and China. An agreement was reached that port facilities would increase if the Mongla Port Authority works jointly with the Port of Yantai in China.
The Shipping Adviser highlighted that China possesses expertise in port operation and management, which could benefit Bangladeshi ports in increasing their cargo and container handling capacity. Sakhawat stressed the need for prompt communication with China Exim Bank for a loan agreement to finance the ‘Expansion and Modernization of Mongla Port’ project, being implemented on a Bangladesh-China J2J basis.
China assured its cooperation in transforming Mongla Port into a regional hub and enhancing its capacity. The Shipping Adviser also acknowledged China’s advanced maritime sector and the role of Guangzhou Maritime University in training and knowledge-sharing for Bangladeshi seafarers. Both parties agreed to further enhance cooperation in this sector.
The Shipping Adviser encouraged Bangladeshi seafarers to seek employment opportunities in various Chinese institutions. The Chinese Transport Minister expressed optimism about continuing China’s role as a reliable development partner for Bangladesh. He noted the strengthening of economic relations, citing Bangladesh’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Gratitude was expressed for China’s ongoing support in the development of Mongla, Chittagong, and Payra ports, as well as other sea and river ports. The meeting also discussed improving relations between Mongla Port and the Port of Yantai and sought Chinese assistance in recruiting trained Bangladeshi seafarers on sea-going ships.
Both parties hoped the meeting would lead to stronger and more fruitful mutual relations. Senior officials from both countries were present at the meeting, as noted by the press release.