Bangladesh’s Reforms Are Internal Affairs: Chinese Envoy

“China maintains good relations with all political parties in Bangladesh,” Ambassador Yao remarked during a media interaction at the Chinese Embassy, emphasizing that China respects Bangladesh’s sovereignty and the choices it makes regarding its domestic affairs.

The Ambassador also highlighted the growing cooperation between China and Bangladesh in fields like digital economy, green economy, renewable energy, agriculture, and artificial intelligence (AI). "China will encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest and thrive in Bangladesh," he added, noting that both nations would commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year with a series of celebratory activities.

Ambassador Yao outlined that this milestone would serve as a foundation for strengthening the China-Bangladesh strategic partnership, enhancing communication, and advancing collaborative efforts under the Belt and Road Initiative. "We are committed to elevating the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to new heights, marking the beginning of the next 50 years of strong bilateral relations," he said.

Addressing concerns about loans, the Ambassador reassured that China does not impose any conditions on its financial assistance. He pointed to multiple landmark projects between the two countries and emphasized China’s role as Bangladesh’s largest investor, with 30 Chinese companies signing agreements to invest approximately $230 million in Bangladesh since the interim government assumed office in August.

In addition to investments, Ambassador Yao announced that China would start importing mangoes and jackfruits from Bangladesh in May this year, further deepening trade ties between the two nations.

"China firmly supports Bangladesh in maintaining its national independence, sovereignty, and dignity," said the Ambassador. "We respect the Bangladeshi people’s decision to follow a development path suited to their own conditions and needs."

He also mentioned the recent visit of Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Md Touhid Hossain, to China in January. The visit marked the first high-level diplomatic meeting between the two countries this year and underscored the mutual trust and support that continues to define their relationship. Ambassador Yao emphasized that this visit, which included meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other high-level officials, sent a strong political message of mutual support.

"China and Bangladesh are good neighbors and trusted partners. Our relations have consistently evolved, with both countries advancing together despite changes in the international landscape and Bangladesh’s domestic shifts," the Ambassador concluded.

In the wake of this visit, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other’s core interests and major concerns, setting the stage for even deeper cooperation in the future.