Bangladesh's Prime Minister Visits China, Critical Bilateral Issues On Agenda

The meeting between Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Premier Li Qiang focused on the Rohingya crisis, trade, and investments. Anticipated agreements aim to strengthen economic and infrastructure ties.

A bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Premier Li Qiang commenced at the Great Hall of the People.

The session started at 11:10 AM and is expected to last for 45 minutes, as reported by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha.

Bangladesh's Hasina In China: Focus on Key Issues

The discussions will primarily address the Rohingya crisis, trade, investments, and bilateral relations. Various regional and international matters will also be on the agenda. Following the talks, Bangladesh and China are anticipated to sign between 20 to 22 agreements.

"The instruments on cooperation in the economic and banking sector, trade and investment, digital economy, infrastructure development, assistance in disaster management, construction of 6th and 9th Bangladesh-China friendship bridges, export of agricultural products from Bangladesh and people to people connectivity are likely to be signed," Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud stated during a press conference, as reported Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha.

Upcoming Projects

During this visit, several projects between the two nations will be inaugurated. This includes initiatives in various sectors aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, as reported by a local National news outlet.

The prime minister's visit to China follows closely after her recent trip to India from June 21 to 22. This marks her fourth visit to China, with previous visits occurring in 2010, 2014, and 2019.

Meeting with Xi Jinping

Later today at 4 PM local time, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for a 40-minute discussion. Topics will include bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues.

The prime minister recently met Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. Their discussions then also covered a wide range of topics concerning both nations, as per Bangladesh's media reports.

Historical Context

The relationship between Bangladesh and China was significantly enhanced by Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Bangladesh in 2016. This visit elevated their ties to a "Strategic Partnership of Cooperation."

The two countries plan to celebrate the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations next year. This current visit aims to further elevate their relationship to a "comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, " as reported by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha.

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman visited China twice in the early '50s. He met leaders Mao Zedong and Zhou En Lai during his visits. His book "Amar Dekha Naya Chin" reflects his admiration for China's leadership and policies.

This meeting is seen as a significant step towards strengthening ties between Bangladesh and China across various sectors including trade, investment, and infrastructure development.