Bangladesh And China Agree To Increase BRI Cooperation

China praised Bangladesh for being the first South Asian country to participate in the BRI.

Bangladesh and China have strengthened their cooperation significantly following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's official visit to Beijing. They have agreed to deepen collaboration across various sectors, emphasizing the principles of mutual planning, construction, and shared benefits under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This includes accelerating ongoing projects and expanding cooperation areas to achieve more substantial outcomes.

China supports Bangladesh's Southern Integrated Development Initiatives and applauds its proactive role in the BRI, marking Bangladesh as the first South Asian country to participate. The joint statement underscores commitments to peaceful coexistence, strategic partnership enhancement, and alignment of development strategies.

Key projects include expanding Teletalk's 4G network, improving municipal services, and enhancing Dhaka's sewage systems. China will encourage its enterprises to engage responsibly in Bangladesh's infrastructure development, including subways, metro rail, and healthcare facilities.

Economically, both countries aim to deepen trade ties, finalize a free trade agreement feasibility study, and explore investment opportunities in economic zones and new industries like renewable energy and manufacturing.

Moreover, they plan to enhance financial cooperation, promote local currency settlements in trade, and facilitate Chinese bank branches in Bangladesh. Environmental cooperation will focus on green development and disaster management, alongside advancements in digital trade infrastructure.

Military exchanges will intensify, and both nations will reaffirm their commitment to UN peacekeeping efforts. Overall, the elevated ties aim to foster comprehensive and sustainable development, underlining a shared vision for regional prosperity and stability.