'We Want to Be Your Partner': Yunus Urges Stronger Bangladesh-China Ties Amid India Tensions

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Yunus added that these efforts aim to attract foreign direct investment, stimulate economic growth, and generate employment opportunities for the country's youth.
Bangladesh Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday said that large-scale Chinese investment in Bangladesh can be a game changer for the country's economy, reported Bangladeshi news website The Daily Star.
'Chinese companies are the masters of manufacturing in the globe, and we want to be your partner," Yunus said while inaugurating the China-Bangladesh Conference on Trade and Investment, reported the news website.
The daylong event was organized by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) with assistance from the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) and the Chinese government at the BIDA office in Dhaka.
China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao attended the event as a special guest.
During the event, Yunus also highlighted that tens of millions of young Bangladeshis are eager for meaningful employment to showcase their skills.
'Bangladesh stands on the cusp of a transformative era. Our interim government has been steadfast with implementing reforms aimed at enhancing the investment climate, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and ensuring a conducive environment for business operations," Yunus said, The Daily Star mentioned.
Yunus added that these efforts aim to attract foreign direct investment, stimulate economic growth, and generate employment opportunities for the country's youth.
He described the conference as a historic occasion for Bangladesh, particularly as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the enduring friendship between Bangladesh and China.
During the event, Bangladesh chief adviser emphasized the need to build a future that aspires to reach new heights, highlighting the shared potential of Bangladesh and China. He also mentioned that during his recent visit to Beijing, he had encouraged Chinese President Xi Jinping to support greater investment from Chinese companies in Bangladesh, expressing gratitude for the president's commitment.
Recent Strain With India
In recent months, India-Bangladesh relations have experienced significant strain, particularly following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.
The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has pursued a foreign policy that appears to distance itself from New Delhi, fostering closer ties with Beijing and Islamabad.
This shift has been marked by a series of reciprocal trade restrictions, including India's imposition of port curbs on Bangladeshi imports such as readymade garments and processed foods, in response to similar measures from Dhaka. Additionally, the cancellation of a $21 million defense contract by Bangladesh with India's state-owned Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd has further exacerbated tensions.
First Published:
June 03, 2025, 09:04 IST