BEIJING: China and Bangladesh strengthened their strategic partnership on Thursday by signing 13 agreements aimed at expanding cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, and economic development during high-level talks in Beijing.
The agreements were finalized following a bilateral meeting between Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People. Officials described the accords as a significant step toward enhancing economic collaboration and deepening diplomatic ties between the two countries.
According to a statement from the Bangladeshi prime minister’s office, the discussions focused on boosting bilateral trade, attracting investment, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a comprehensive strategic partnership and creating new opportunities for economic growth.
Rahman is currently on a three-day official visit to China, his first since assuming office after February’s national elections. The visit is expected to culminate in a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where broader regional and economic issues are likely to be discussed.
China remains Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, with annual bilateral trade exceeding $24 billion. Despite strong commercial ties, Bangladesh exports a comparatively smaller volume of goods to China, prompting efforts to improve market access and reduce the trade imbalance.
A key outcome of the visit was an agreement on technical cooperation for the Teesta River management project. During talks with Chinese Water Resources Minister Li Guoying, Bangladesh sought Beijing’s assistance in developing and restoring the transboundary river system, which plays a vital role in northern Bangladesh.
Chinese officials expressed support for the initiative and offered to share expertise in water resource management, including training opportunities for Bangladeshi professionals. The project has gained increasing importance as Bangladesh seeks long-term solutions to seasonal water shortages and flooding challenges linked to upstream infrastructure.
The Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s most significant infrastructure ambitions. Following political changes in 2024, Dhaka shifted its focus toward exploring alternative international partnerships and investment sources for the project.
In addition to government meetings, Rahman held discussions with leading Chinese corporations, encouraging greater investment in Bangladesh’s manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure sectors. He also announced plans to establish Bangladesh’s first dedicated investment office in China to facilitate services for Chinese businesses and investors.
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