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Strengthening ties with China

There is still immense potential to be tapped with regard to collaboration between the two nations

GreenWatch Desk Op-Ed 2024-06-26, 2:31pm

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Ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s proposed visit next month to China, it is always encouraging to see positive words being spoken of the relationship between the two nation; Liu Jianchao, visiting China Communist Party's minister of international relations stating that "Bangladesh to us is a perfect, friendly and firm partner," is certainly welcome to hear.

Bangladesh’s ambitions over the next two decades have been spoken of at length, and to that effect, diplomacy remains arguably the most significant cornerstone for us to achieve Bangladesh as it strives to achieve the goal of becoming a prosperous, developed, and equitable nation by 2041.
In addition, diplomacy remains pivotal in attracting foreign investment, something that Bangladesh continues to struggle with owing to numerous issues and bottlenecks that persist. It is thus most important for Bangladesh, in its diplomacy efforts, to strengthen relationships with partners who continue to help us build our nation - and China ranks near the very top of that list.
The two nations have undoubtedly cultivated a robust strategic partnership over the years, built on a foundation of mutual respect. The role of Chinese companies in developing Bangladesh's infrastructure, from power plants to bridges and railways, simply cannot be denied, with the Padma Bridge the stand-out project to this fruitful collaboration, reports DT.
However, there is still immense potential to be tapped with regard to collaboration between the two nations. In particular, increased cooperation in sectors such as technology transfer, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure could go a long way to propel Bangladesh further along its development trajectory.
As geopolitical tensions rise globally, we must continue to recall and implement Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s words of offering “friendship to all and malice towards none.” Maintaining strong ties with as many nations as possible, and especially strengthening ties with trusted partners such as China, will be key for us to reach our goals.