Politicians and business leaders on Saturday emphasised strengthening the partnership between China and Bangladesh, underscoring a shared vision for peace, long-term strategic cooperation, and the exploration of new economic, cultural and diplomatic collaborations.
The remarks were made at a seminar marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with a focus on Chinese President Xi Jinping’s four global initiatives and their potential for shared development.
The Apon Friendship Exchange Center, in collaboration with the Chinese embassy, organised the event at the center in the capital’s Baridhara area.
Addressing the event, Chinese embassy Chargé d’Affaires Liu Yin highlighted the critical stage of development both nations are in, stressing the importance of deepening cooperation, aligning development strategies, and advancing high-quality Belt and Road projects to ensure a shared future.
Bangladesh-China Cultural, Economic and Media Centre president Altaf Hossain Chowdhury praised Xi Jinping’s global initiatives as aligning with Bangladesh’s development and foreign policy goals.
BKMEA president Mohammad Hatem emphasised China’s key role as Bangladesh’s largest trade partner and a vital ally in its development, particularly in the garment and textile sector, calling for increased Chinese investment to strengthen supply chains and promote mutual growth.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party vice-chairman Asaduzzaman Ripon noted that the 50-year relationship between China and Bangladesh was more than just diplomatic, describing it as a crucial chapter in South Asia’s geopolitics and economic development.
Dhaka University professor Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir and Bangladesh Employers Federation president Fazle Shamim Ehsan, among others, addressed the event.