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Chinese Solar Giant Longi to Invest in Bangladesh: Envoy
Longi, the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, has announced plans to establish an office and invest in solar panel manufacturing in Bangladesh, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, confirmed today.
The ambassador revealed that several leading Chinese solar panel manufacturers visited Bangladesh in December to explore investment opportunities. This visit followed an invitation extended by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to Chinese companies, encouraging them to relocate their manufacturing plants to Bangladesh as part of the Interim Government’s initiative to turn the country into an economic hub, according to Chief Adviser Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.
Ambassador Yao Wen added that at least two of the companies, including Longi, have decided to set up offices and manufacturing plants in Bangladesh. "They will invest in Bangladesh very soon," he told Prof. Yunus during a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna.
Since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina's regime on August 5, Chinese companies have emerged as the largest investors in Bangladesh, with many more lining up to invest as a dedicated Chinese export processing zone is set to open soon.
The ambassador also spoke about the upcoming official visit of Prof. Yunus to China, calling it a milestone in the 50-year relationship between the two nations. "This visit will be the most important in our history as close and trustworthy friends," he stated.
Prof. Yunus welcomed increased Chinese investment, particularly in manufacturing, highlighting Bangladesh’s potential as a prime export hub for companies targeting Western markets. He also urged Chinese hospital chains to establish top-tier healthcare facilities in Bangladesh, noting the country’s urgent need for investment in healthcare.
Ambassador Yao Wen mentioned that China has set up four hospitals in Kunming dedicated to Bangladeshi patients, with a group of Bangladeshi patients traveling there for treatment last week.
Additionally, Prof. Yunus is set to receive an honorary doctorate from Peking University during his visit. He will also speak at the prestigious Boao Forum, often dubbed the "Davos of the East," on the topic "Asia in a Changing World: Towards a Shared Future," alongside China’s Executive Vice Premier.
During the visit, Prof. Yunus is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on March 28, after which both countries will issue a joint statement.