CA’s China Visit Strengthens Bilateral Ties: Khalilur Rahman

Chief Adviser’s High Representative Khalilur Rahman stated today that the recent visit of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to China has solidified the relationship between the two nations, setting a robust foundation for the coming decades.

“This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, making this visit a historic milestone,” Rahman said at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in the city.

Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), also addressed the media, sharing insights from the trip. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam was present at the event.

Rahman highlighted the exceptional level of honor extended to Dr. Yunus and his delegation by the Chinese authorities, saying, “The reception they received was inspiring and reflective of the strong ties between our two countries.”

He also noted the cooperation between Bangladesh and China regarding the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP), with the Chinese side showing a positive outlook on participating in the initiative.

Rahman expressed Bangladesh’s appreciation for China’s active role in promoting peace talks related to Myanmar, particularly its efforts concerning the displaced Rohingya population. He pointed out that China commended Bangladesh’s humanitarian assistance and expressed continued support for the repatriation of Rohingyas.

China assured Bangladesh that it would continue to support efforts to return the displaced people to Myanmar to the best of its ability, Rahman added.

In response to a query, Rahman mentioned that four specialized hospitals have been established in Kunming for the benefit of Bangladeshis, with plans for a similar facility to be built in Bangladesh.

Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun also briefed reporters on the ongoing efforts to foster investment opportunities between the two countries. “We are advancing our bilateral ties with a focus on mutual benefit,” he explained. He mentioned meeting with more than 100 Chinese companies and their executives to discuss the growing investment prospects in Bangladesh. “I presented the advantages of investing in Bangladesh and outlined recent reforms aimed at improving the business climate.”

The visit culminated in the signing of several key agreements, including an "Economic and Technical Cooperation" agreement, as well as memoranda on cultural heritage, media exchange, sports, and healthcare collaboration.

Chief Adviser Professor Yunus expressed his deep gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people for their warm hospitality and extended an invitation for President Xi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.

Both sides agreed to strengthen their Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, emphasizing the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, mutual political trust, and synergy in development strategies. They also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other’s core interests and sovereignty.

China reiterated its respect for Bangladesh’s independence and development path, assuring its continued support for the interim government’s efforts to maintain stability and steer the country toward prosperity.

Dr. Yunus attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan, China, from March 26-27, before traveling to Beijing for bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping on March 28. On March 29, he received an honorary doctorate from Peking University (PKU) and delivered a lecture on his experiences and vision.