Beijing, China — China and Bangladesh have announced the successful completion of a joint feasibility study on a China-Bangladesh free trade agreement (FTA), marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations. The announcement was made on Wednesday following a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Beijing.
The two leaders also agreed to commence negotiations on upgrading the bilateral investment agreement. Witnessing the signing of multiple cooperation documents, they outlined plans to enhance collaboration in policy exchange, economy, trade and investment, digital economy, inspection and quarantine, healthcare, education, and media. In a move to foster deeper cultural ties, they designated 2025 as the China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year.
During their meeting, Premier Li expressed China’s commitment to aligning development strategies with Bangladesh and advancing high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. He emphasized the importance of strengthening infrastructure development, promoting balanced bilateral trade, and deepening cooperation in new energy, digital economy, and industrial parks.
“We support Chinese enterprises in strengthening industrial investment cooperation with Bangladesh and working together to enhance the resilience and safety of the industrial and supply chains,” Li stated. “We hope that Bangladesh will provide a conducive environment for Chinese enterprises operating in the country.”
Premier Li also highlighted the significance of cultural, tourism, youth, and regional exchanges in adding momentum to both countries’ modernization efforts. He expressed China’s willingness to enhance communication and coordination with Bangladesh in multilateral arenas, opposing hegemonism and power politics to safeguard international fairness, justice, and the common interests of developing countries.
Prime Minister Hasina expressed deep appreciation for China’s valuable support over the years, acknowledging China’s remarkable development achievements as an inspiration for other developing nations. She reaffirmed Bangladesh’s firm support for the one-China policy and China’s efforts to safeguard its core interests.
“As we approach the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties next year, Bangladesh is eager to maintain closer high-level exchanges with China,” Hasina said. “We aim to enhance the exchange of governance experiences and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in economy, trade, infrastructure, and finance.”
Hasina emphasized Bangladesh’s commitment to actively participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening cooperation with China in international multilateral affairs, and promoting comprehensive development of bilateral relations to safeguard world peace and stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
