Dhaka: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called on Chinese investors to expand their investment footprint in Bangladesh, underscoring the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries. The call came during a courtesy meeting between the minister and Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen at the Home Ministry office in the Bangladesh Secretariat here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting highlighted China as one of Bangladesh’s largest development partners, with the minister emphasizing the nations’ ‘time-tested’ friendship and the importance of elevating bilateral ties. He noted China’s investment in several major development projects in Bangladesh and urged for further investment.
Ambassador Yao Wen stated that with a politically stable government in Bangladesh, Chinese investment is expected to rise. He mentioned that approximately 10,000 Chinese nationals are currently working in various sectors across Bangladesh. Highlighting the connection between development and security, the ambassador stressed the need for improved law and order to attract more foreign investment.
In response, the Home Minister affirmed that maintaining law and order and ensuring stability remains the government’s top priority. The Chinese envoy also requested Bangladesh to join the ‘International Alliance Combating Telecom and Cyber Fraud,’ an initiative of China’s Ministry of Public Security, noting a formal proposal has been sent.
The minister directed officials to review the expired Memorandum of Understanding on the ‘Plan of Action on Law Enforcement Training Cooperation’ between the countries. He also expressed his intention to visit China at a mutually convenient time.
The meeting covered various mutual interests, including security, law and order, cybercrime suppression, police training cooperation, trade expansion, and strengthening bilateral relations. The ambassador conveyed floral greetings and congratulations to the newly appointed Home Minister and extended an invitation to visit China.
The meeting was attended by Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Manzur Morshed Chowdhury, other ministry officials, and representatives of the Chinese Embassy.