Dhaka Urges Seamless Connectivity with China via Myanmar

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain

"We urgently need seamless connectivity between Bangladesh and China, and the most viable route passes through Myanmar," he stated, underscoring the need for a stable Myanmar and the sustainable repatriation of Rohingya refugees to the Rakhine State.

Touhid expressed hope for Myanmar’s return to peace and stability, which he said would pave the way for the repatriation of the Rohingya with security and rights in their homeland. "Only then can this connectivity be fully realized to bring lasting benefits to our people," he added.

His remarks came during the inauguration of the International Conference on "China-South Asia Civilization and Connectivity: History and Contemporary Issues" at North South University (NSU) in Dhaka.

Highlighting Bangladesh's strategic location and growing economic potential, the foreign affairs adviser emphasized the country's commitment to fostering connectivity that benefits all parties involved. "This connectivity will play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and fostering cultural exchanges," he said.

Touhid also pointed out that regional connectivity is becoming increasingly crucial in addressing global challenges such as climate change and economic volatility. "In the face of global challenges, it is essential that we collaborate with China—not just as strategic partners but as genuine friends," he stated.

Touching upon China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), in which Bangladesh plays a key role, he noted that the initiative embodies the spirit of shared prosperity. "The development of infrastructure, trade corridors, and people-to-people exchanges under the BRI aligns perfectly with our aspirations for sustainable development and regional integration," he said.

The adviser also reiterated the importance of strengthening the Bangladesh-China partnership, which was elevated to a "Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership" earlier this year. "This partnership is built on the strong foundations of trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a prosperous future," Touhid explained.

However, he cautioned that addressing contemporary global challenges—such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic disparities—requires collective action. "As responsible neighbors, China and South Asian nations must work together to ensure peace, stability, and progress in the region," he stressed.

Touhid also acknowledged the transformative energy within Bangladesh, noting the recent surge of activism and innovation led by the country’s youth. "This renewed spirit, the 'New Bangladesh,' is a commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative society while redefining our role on the global stage," he said.

The seminar was organized jointly by the China-South Asia Center for Sociocultural Studies (CSCSS) of NSU and Yunnan University, China. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen and NSU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Abdul Hannan Chowdhury also addressed the opening session.