Dhaka-Beijing Ties to Strengthen During Dr. Yunus' Visit

Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus has announced that his upcoming four-day official visit to China, starting Wednesday, will further deepen the diplomatic and economic relationship between Bangladesh and China.

"I am heading to China for a four-day visit where I will meet with President Xi Jinping and engage with CEOs of major Chinese corporations," Dr. Yunus revealed before his departure.

The Chief Adviser will depart Dhaka for Beijing on Wednesday afternoon, aiming to enhance bilateral cooperation in several strategic areas.

In a national address on Tuesday evening, Dr. Yunus shared key highlights of his visit, including discussions with Longji, the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels, which has expressed interest in setting up a factory in Bangladesh. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure technical and medical assistance, as well as affordable healthcare solutions from China. “We are working closely with them, and they are eager to import mangoes, jackfruit, and guava from Bangladesh. This will begin shortly,” he said.

Bangladesh and China are preparing to sign a series of agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during Dr. Yunus' meetings with President Xi Jinping in Beijing on March 28. The anticipated agreements will focus on areas such as human resource development, economic and technical cooperation, cultural exchange, sports collaboration, and media relations. Additionally, significant announcements regarding investments, economic zones, and trade relations are expected.

Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin briefed the media on Tuesday, emphasizing that the bilateral discussions will encompass a wide range of topics, including trade and investment promotion, agriculture, renewable energy, and the ongoing Rohingya crisis. "China is Bangladesh's closest neighbor, a strategic partner, and one of the largest commercial and development allies," he stated, underscoring the growing ties between the two nations.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, and the Foreign Secretary expressed optimism that Dr. Yunus’ visit would elevate the relationship to new heights.

The Chief Adviser will also take part in roundtable discussions on sustainable infrastructure, energy investment, manufacturing, and youth entrepreneurship. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, expressed confidence that Dr. Yunus’ visit would be a "milestone" in strengthening the partnership between the two countries. "This will be the most important visit by a Bangladeshi leader in the last 50 years," said Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, quoting Ambassador Yao.

A major focus of the visit will be encouraging the relocation of Chinese factories to Bangladesh to transform the country into a manufacturing hub. "We aim to create a revolution in the manufacturing sector, generate more jobs, and boost exports," Alam added.

On the sidelines of the visit, Dr. Yunus is scheduled to meet with several business leaders, and key announcements related to the economy and trade are expected.

Dr. Yunus will also attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Hainan Province, China, on March 27, where he will engage with international leaders and corporate executives. Additionally, he will participate in a program at Peking University on March 29 before returning to Dhaka later that evening.

The BFA, under the theme "Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future," will focus on fostering global cooperation, inclusive development, sustainable growth, and the advancement of AI technologies. The event will feature a wide range of international leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts, including representatives from Fortune Global 500 companies.

Ambassador Yao recently emphasized that China views Bangladesh as a steadfast partner, regardless of political changes, and aims to continue strengthening ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.