China is willing to work with Bangladesh to deepen practical cooperation and promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation to further advance bilateral ties, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a meeting with Adviser for Foreign Affairs of the Interim Government of Bangladesh Touhid Hossain in Beijing on Tuesday.
Hossain is currently in China for a five-day visit, starting Monday.
The fact that Hossain made China the destination of his first trip overseas after assuming office reflects the great importance that the interim government of Bangladesh attaches to China-Bangladesh relations, Wang said.
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“China has always prioritized Bangladesh in its neighborhood diplomacy and adheres to a good-neighborly policy toward all Bangladeshi people,” Wang said.
China is deepening comprehensive reforms and advance Chinese modernization, which will offer new opportunities for countries worldwide, especially neighboring nations, he said.
Bangladesh was the first South Asian country to sign a memorandum of understanding on Belt and Road cooperation with China.
Wang called on the two countries to coordinate efforts to implement major landmark projects and “small but beautiful” livelihood programs, consolidate traditional cooperation while exploring new emerging areas.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Bangladesh, as well as the China-Bangladesh Year of Cultural Exchange.
Wang expressed China’s readiness to join hands with Bangladesh to carry forward traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication and advance their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
Hossain said friendship with China is a cross-party consensus in Bangladesh, supported by successive governments and the entire nation.
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He thanked China for supporting Bangladesh in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity while pledging the country’s firm adherence to the one-China principle.
Hossain also expressed gratitude for China’s long-term selfless support for Bangladesh’s development, bringing about tangible benefits to its people.
Bangladesh is willing to engage in mutual support with China in international forums, strengthen coordination in regional affairs, act as partners in promoting connectivity and regional economic integration, and jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, he said.