Beijing eyes stronger ties ahead of Tarique’s china visit

China is expecting to use Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s visit as an opportunity to strengthen strategic communication with the new government and further deepen bilateral cooperation.

Ahead of the visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing hopes to advance the long-standing friendship between the two countries, accelerate high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), expand collaboration in various sectors and enhance coordination on regional and global issues.

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing on Monday, Guo said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will begin his official visit to China from June 24 to 26 at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

Guo said this will be Tarique Rahman’s first visit to China since assuming office. During the trip, the Bangladeshi prime minister is expected to hold talks with Chinese leaders on bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said the discussions would help shape the future direction of China-Bangladesh relations.

During the visit, Tarique Rahman will also attend the 17th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Summer Davos, scheduled to be held in Dalian, Liaoning Province in northeastern China.

Describing China and Bangladesh as long-standing friendly neighbours and comprehensive strategic cooperative partners, Guo said bilateral relations have continued to grow in recent years under the strategic guidance of leaders from both countries.

He added that political trust between the two sides has strengthened and practical cooperation has produced positive outcomes, bringing tangible benefits to the people of both nations.

TZ