Bangladesh, China pledge to deepen ties, cooperation

Dhaka: Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks in Beijing on May 6, reaffirming their countries' traditional friendship and vowing to strengthen ties across multiple sectors.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the country is committed to being Bangladesh's "most reliable partner" in its national development process. He added that China supports the new Bangladeshi government in maintaining unity and stability while revitalizing the economy.

Wang said China is prepared to align its Belt and Road cooperation with Bangladesh's national development strategies. He emphasized deepening collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure, water conservancy, and people-to-people exchanges, while expanding into emerging sectors like green development and the digital economy.

He also stressed that China's engagement with Bangladesh and other South Asian nations is not directed at any third party, nor should it be influenced by one.

Rahman said Bangladesh regards China as a "trustworthy and indispensable" friend and partner. He noted that the new Bangladeshi government places great importance on its relationship with Beijing.

Rahman reaffirmed Bangladesh's adherence to the one-China principle, stating that Bangladesh firmly supports China's position on the Taiwan question and recognizes the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing all of China.

He also said Bangladesh welcomes Chinese investment and pledged to provide a stable and predictable business environment for Chinese enterprises operating in the country.

Both ministers expressed appreciation for the longstanding support each country has extended to the other. Rahman said Bangladesh looks forward to elevating the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations to a new level.

Following the talks, the two sides issued a joint press release. They also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern.