Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday made an announcement
to provide one billion US dollars (US$1 billion) to Bangladesh as economic
assistance, saying that they give utmost importance to the relationship
with Bangladesh.
Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud said this while briefing
the reporters. He said the Chinese Premier also expressed his desire to take
the relations between Bangladesh and China to a new height. In a cordial
environment, Bangladesh and China have a fruitful discussion regarding all
issues, said the Foreign Minister. Hasan said Li Qiang recalled the
relationship that was planted through the 1952 and 1957 visits of Father
of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and with six visits of
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the relations will be expanded further in
the coming days. Sheikh Hasina invited the Chinese President, Prime Minister
and others to visit Bangladesh next year to celebrate the 50 years of
diplomatic relations between the two countries. Both the leaders put
emphasis on celebrating the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic relationship
in a befitting manner. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation
to resolve the Rohingya issue. She also put emphasis on reducing the trade
gap with China. In reply, the Chinese Prime Minister talked about
importing more Bangladesh products in his country.
Sheikh Hasina requested her Chinese counterpart to import
leather products, jute products, pharmaceutical goods, and ceramic
products. Both the countries have agreed to work together to establish world
peace and uphold humanity across the globe. Sheikh Hasina invited more
Chinese investments in 100 special economic zones and Bangabandhu
Industrial Park mentioning that Bangladesh has allotted one export
processing zone for Chinese investors. She pointed out the inclusion of
Bangladesh in BRICS in any format and the Chinese Prime Minister assured
her of their support regarding this inclusion. Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese
cooperation so that Bangladesh could enjoy the LDC facilities at least
three more years in its official graduation to Middle Income Country after
2026. The Chinese Prime Minister gave a positive response. Press Secretary Md
Nayeemul Islam Khan was present at the briefing.
