This visit comes at a symbolic time, as Bangladesh and China celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, described Dr. Yunus’ visit as “a milestone,” underscoring its significance in shaping the next chapter of Dhaka-Beijing relations.
Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, is set to embark on a four-day official visit to China today, marking a pivotal moment in the 50-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations. This high-level visit, highlighted by bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on March 28, is poised to strengthen ties in trade, investment, and strategic cooperation.
Addressing the nation on Tuesday evening, Yunus expressed optimism about the visit, emphasizing its potential to deepen relations between Dhaka and Beijing. “I am going to China on a four-day visit. I will meet with President Xi Jinping and CEOs of major Chinese businesses. This visit will open new doors for economic collaboration and mutual growth,” he stated.
Yunus highlighted China’s interest in expanding its economic footprint in Bangladesh. Notably, Longji, the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels, has expressed a strong interest in establishing a production facility in Bangladesh. “We are working closely with Longji to explore this opportunity, which could significantly advance our renewable energy sector,” said Yunus.
In addition to industrial investments, discussions will also focus on boosting agricultural trade. China has shown keen interest in importing Bangladeshi produce such as mangoes, jackfruit, and guava. “This initiative will kick off soon, opening up new markets for Bangladeshi farmers,” Yunus assured.
A Milestone in Diplomatic Relations
On March 28, Yunus and President Xi are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of China in Beijing. Following the talks, several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed, covering diverse areas such as:
- Human resource development
- Economic and technical assistance
- Cultural and sports cooperation
- Media collaboration
Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin, during a press briefing on Tuesday, emphasized that these agreements would add fresh momentum to the strategic partnership between the two nations. “This visit will set the stage for stronger collaboration in agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, and even humanitarian efforts like resolving the Rohingya crisis,” he said.
This visit comes at a symbolic time, as Bangladesh and China celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, described Dr. Yunus’ visit as “a milestone,” underscoring its significance in shaping the next chapter of Dhaka-Beijing relations.
“This is going to be the most important visit by a Bangladeshi leader in 50 years,” said Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, quoting Ambassador Yao. A key focus of the discussions will be on relocating Chinese factories to Bangladesh to establish the country as a manufacturing hub. “This initiative will revolutionize Bangladesh’s manufacturing sector, creating jobs and enhancing export capabilities,” Alam added.
Expanding Social Business and Youth Initiatives
Yunus’ visit includes participation in the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference in Hainan Province. The forum, themed “Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future,” will serve as a platform to discuss global challenges and regional cooperation.
The Chief Adviser will participate in the inaugural plenary session on March 27, with an anticipated meeting with China’s Executive Vice President of the State Council the same day. On March 29, Yunus will attend a program at Peking University before returning to Dhaka later that evening.
The BFA is expected to attract high-profile participants, including international organization leaders, Fortune Global 500 executives, and renowned academics. The conference will delve into topics such as fostering trust in a changing world, rebalancing globalization for inclusive development, and accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.
Yunus, a Nobel laureate celebrated for his work in social business, will use the visit to highlight Bangladesh’s leadership in this field. He is scheduled to participate in discussions on Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy Investment, Bangladesh’s manufacturing and market opportunities, and youth entrepreneurship. The agenda reflects Bangladesh’s aspiration to become a global leader in sustainable development and innovation.
China’s Commitment to Bilateral Cooperation
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen reaffirmed China’s steadfast commitment to its partnership with Bangladesh. “No matter who forms the government in Bangladesh, our policy remains steadfast. Our cooperation is designed to benefit both the Bangladeshi and Chinese people,” he said.
The ambassador also highlighted the mutual advantages of deepening ties, noting that China remains Bangladesh’s largest trading partner and a key ally in development. “This visit will further solidify our strategic partnership, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure, and economic collaboration,” he added.
Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin emphasized that this visit will “add a new dimension to Dhaka-Beijing relations,” creating opportunities for both nations to address global challenges while advancing their respective national interests. From renewable energy projects to enhanced trade and manufacturing, the outcomes of this visit are expected to resonate far beyond the immediate agreements.
Yunus’ visit underscores the growing importance of Bangladesh as a strategic partner in Asia’s development narrative. With plans for collaboration in sectors ranging from infrastructure to agriculture, the visit is expected to yield tangible benefits for both nations while setting a precedent for regional cooperation.
As Yunus prepares to embark on this historic journey, the optimism surrounding his meetings and engagements underscores the promise of a deeper, more dynamic partnership between Bangladesh and China.
