China and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening strategic cooperation, with both nations pledging to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties during the first bilateral visit of Bangladesh’s interim government Foreign Affairs Adviser, Md. Touhid Hossain, to Beijing.
During formal discussions at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted Bangladesh’s “important position” in China’s neighbourhood diplomacy. He underscored China’s longstanding policy of fostering good-neighbourly and friendly relations with Bangladesh.
The visit builds on the foundation established during Chinese President Xi Jinping's historic 2016 visit to Dhaka, which elevated bilateral ties to a “comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.”

Strengthened Diplomatic Relations

As both nations approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Wang Yi reaffirmed China's commitment to advancing political and economic ties. The year 2025 has been designated as the “Year of China-Bangladesh Cultural Exchanges,” creating new opportunities for collaboration.
Touhid Hossain expressed gratitude for China’s support for Bangladesh’s development, noting the widespread public and political support for friendly relations with China. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s adherence to the “One China” policy and highlighted the interim government’s reform initiatives and focus on development.

Key Agreements and Initiatives

The visit saw the signing of the Implementation Plan of the MoU on Information Exchange on the Yarlung Zangbo River-Yamuna River Hydropower Project. This agreement facilitates the exchange of data for a hydroelectric power project upstream of the Brahmaputra River.
Additionally, Wang Yi announced the designation of three to four hospitals in Kunming for Bangladeshi patients and welcomed the proposal to establish a Chinese hospital in Dhaka to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Financial Cooperation and Development Projects
In meetings with Luo Zhaohui, Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), Bangladesh sought concessions on Chinese loans, including reduced interest rates and extended repayment terms. Touhid Hossain proposed waivers of management fees and requested additional concessional loans, grants, and project funding.
The CIDCA Chairman assured consideration of these requests, highlighting existing extensions on loan repayment periods and expressing openness to further discussions. The talks also explored financing for Bangladesh’s Metrorail project and the Southern Infrastructure Development Initiative (SIDI).

Belt and Road Initiative and Infrastructure Development
Both sides reiterated their commitment to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with discussions covering key Chinese-funded projects, including the Dasherkandi Drainage Project, modernisation of Mongla Port, digital connectivity initiatives, and 4G infrastructure expansion.
Commitment to Regional Stability and the Rohingya Crisis
The Rohingya crisis was a key topic of discussion, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to pursuing a sustainable solution. Wang Yi assured that China would continue dialogue with Myanmar to address the issue and promote regional stability.
The visit marked a significant step in enhancing the bilateral relationship, reflecting shared aspirations for development and cooperation. With new agreements and initiatives, both nations are poised to deepen their partnership as they commemorate 50 years of diplomatic ties.
The discussions and agreements highlight a mutual commitment to fostering regional stability, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening people-to-people connections.
 

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