News Desk

Bangladesh and China on September 14 discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, energy, human-resource development and economic affairs, with particular attention to the proposed Bangladesh-China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (BCIM).

The issues were discussed during a courtesy meeting between Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen and Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, MP, at her office in Dhaka, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on areas of mutual interest and explored opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The BCIM Economic Corridor was among the key issues discussed, alongside the Chinese Economic Zone and the development of Mongla Port.

The proposed corridor has long been viewed as a potential platform for enhancing regional connectivity and trade by linking Bangladesh, China, Myanmar and other parts of the region. Discussions on the initiative come as Bangladesh continues to seek greater investment, infrastructure development and economic connectivity with regional partners.

The Chinese Economic Zone in Bangladesh was also highlighted during the meeting, reflecting the importance both sides attach to expanding Chinese investment and industrial cooperation.

The development of Mongla Port featured prominently in the discussions. Improved port infrastructure and connectivity could contribute to Bangladesh’s trade capacity and strengthen links with regional markets.

The two sides also discussed the proposed 1,000-bed hospital in Rangpur, as well as cooperation in education and human-resource development. People-to-people exchanges were another area of mutual interest.

Energy cooperation, including renewable energy, was also discussed, with both countries exploring opportunities for collaboration in a sector increasingly important to Bangladesh’s development and energy security. Women’s empowerment was also included among the areas raised during the meeting.

Shama recalled Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s successful visit to China and expressed appreciation for Beijing’s continued support for Bangladesh’s development. She particularly acknowledged China’s contributions to infrastructure, human development and capacity-building initiatives.

Ambassador Yao reaffirmed China’s commitment to Bangladesh as a trusted partner and friend. He also pointed to what he described as significant progress in bilateral relations in recent years, emphasizing the growing scope of cooperation between Dhaka and Beijing.

During the meeting, Yao invited the state minister to visit China at a mutually convenient time while leading a delegation of Bangladeshi women entrepreneurs. Shama welcomed the invitation and expressed appreciation for the initiative.

The latest discussions underscore the broadening nature of Bangladesh-China relations, with both sides seeking to deepen cooperation beyond traditional infrastructure projects into trade, energy, education, human-resource development and regional connectivity.