Chief Advisor's visit  to China

The recent visit of Chief Advisor Dr. Md Yunus to China marks a significant milestone in Bangladesh-China relations. As his first bilateral engagement since assuming office, the visit has been widely regarded as a crucial step towards strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. Anticipation surrounding the visit was high, with discussions in the media about key issues expected to be addressed, including trade agreements, business collaborations, and strategic partnerships. Although the full details are yet to emerge, press briefings have underscored several critical areas that will shape the trajectory of bilateral relations in the coming years.

Dr. Yunus attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan from March 26 to 27 at the invitation of the forum's secretary-general. Following this, he visited Beijing from March 27 to 29 at the invitation of the Chinese government. On March 28, he met President Xi Jinping, a meeting viewed by many as a potential game-changer for Bangladesh's economic prospects and its role in regional and global geopolitics. Their discussions covered a broad spectrum of topics, including investment in manufacturing and energy, business relocation, bilateral trade issues including Free Trade Agreement (FTA), healthcare cooperation, infrastructure development, loan repayment adjustments, Rohingya repatriation and the implementation of the long-standing Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP).

Bangladesh welcomed Chinese companies to participate in the TRCMRP, underscoring the project's importance for water resource management and agricultural development. The country acknowledged China's constructive role in facilitating peace talks on Myanmar and resolving the crisis of the forcibly displaced Rohingya from Rakhine State. China, in turn, commended Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution through diplomatic consultations. Chinese officials assured continued efforts to assist in the repatriation process within their capacities. A significant outcome of the visit was the signing of an "Economic and Technical Cooperation" agreement between the two governments, along with several other documents aimed at strengthening collaboration, particularly in the healthcare sector. A high-level Bangladesh official revealed that four specialised hospitals have been established in Kunming to cater to Bangladeshis, with plans for a similar facility to be developed in Bangladesh. This move underscores both nations' commitment to deepening healthcare cooperation and improving medical access for citizens. In a joint statement, both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, enhancing industrial and supply chain collaborations, and working towards mutual modernisation goals. The statement emphasised the principles of peaceful coexistence, political trust and the strategic synergy between Bangladesh and China, aiming to propel the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership forward for the benefit of both nations.

Given the pivotal nature of this visit, expectations are high that both governments will remain actively engaged in fulfilling their commitments. This engagement not only promises to fortify bilateral relations but also contribute to broader regional and global stability. As Bangladesh and China continue to foster deeper cooperation, the visit sets the stage for a future of enhanced economic collaboration, diplomatic synergy, and strategic partnership.