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Bangladesh and China on Wednesday celebrated the golden jubilee of their diplomatic ties, pledging to deepen cooperation in peace, development, and mutual prosperity.
The occasion also coincided with the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, marked by a commemorative program in Dhaka attended by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, Finance Adviser Dr Saleh Uddin Ahmed, cultural affairs Adviser Mostafa Sarwar Faruqui, senior officials, and dignitaries.
Chief Adviser of the interim government Dr. Muhammad Yunus in a video message extended warm greetings to President Xi Jinping, the Chinese leadership, and the people of China, Dr Yunus described the relationship between Bangladesh and China as "a shining example before the world of how countries bound by friendship and mutual respect can achieve the greatest progress together."
He lauded China's transformation from a nation once gripped by poverty into the world's second-largest economy and a leader in science, technology, and innovation. "This remarkable journey has not only reshaped China, but also benefited the world at large," he said.
Reflecting on Bangladesh-China ties since their establishment in 1975, Dr Yunus noted that cooperation expanded across diverse fields - trade, investment, infrastructure, education, and cultural exchanges. He recalled Bangladesh's pride in being the first South Asian country to join the Belt and Road Initiative and expressed confidence that relations would continue to move forward, "bringing a future marked by peace, stability, and inclusivity."
Dr Yunus also shared his personal association with China, citing his work with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences on microfinance and poverty reduction programs. He praised growing exchanges between youth, students, and entrepreneurs of the two nations.
On the global stage, Dr Yunus hailed China's role as a strong advocate for the Global South, highlighting its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2060. He linked this pledge to his own "Three Zeros" vision - zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions. "Together, Bangladesh and China can help shape a fairer, greener, and more sustainable world," he declared.
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen echoed this spirit of partnership, underscoring China's historic contributions to peace and development. He reminded the audience of the immense sacrifices made by the Chinese people in safeguarding civilization and emphasized that among the world's major powers, China maintains "the best track record with respect to peace and security." Ambassador Yao pointed to President Xi Jinping's recent initiatives on global governance, security, and civilization, presenting them as "Chinese wisdom and solutions" to today's turbulence. Looking back on five decades of relations, he said Bangladesh and China had always been "sincere friends and reliable partners," supporting each other on issues of national interest while upholding the principle of win-win cooperation.
Finance Adviser Dr Saleh Uddin Ahmed, speaking at the event, stressed the tangible impact of Chinese assistance in Bangladesh's development. "China has been contributing in many fields - infrastructure, development, education, and science - and we are also receiving support in health," he noted, adding that cooperation in healthcare, tourism, and other sectors was expected to expand further. He described China as "a very good and reliable partner" that continues to bring practical benefits to ordinary Bangladeshis.
The golden jubilee celebrations concluded with a shared pledge to carry forward the spirit of partnership forged over the past 50 years. Leaders from both sides affirmed that the friendship between Bangladesh and China would continue to grow stronger, serving as a force for peace, prosperity, and stability in the region and beyond.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.con