Hasan rules out any loan deal during PM Hasina’s China visit
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‘China is an important partner in infrastructure and economic development’
Ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s four-day visit to Beijing, Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud has dismissed any possibility of signing a loan agreement with China. During the visit, at least 20 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) related to various sectors including economic, banking, trade, investment, digital economy, infrastructure, disaster management, and agricultural exports will be signed.
“China is an important partner in infrastructure and economic development,” said Dr. Mahmud, adding that Bangladesh will seek China’s assistance in areas like investment, trade, financial support, and the repatriation of Rohingyas. He emphasized that while no loan agreements are on the agenda, discussions could bring up other issues. “Our foreign reserve is good now,” he assured.
Prime Minister’s Itinerary
Prime Minister Hasina will depart Dhaka at 11 am on Monday, arriving at Beijing International Airport at 6 pm local time. She will be accompanied by ministers for finance, foreign affairs, commerce, energy, mineral resources, and information, along with her adviser for private industry and investment.
On July 9, the Prime Minister will meet with Jean Likun, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and participate in the "Summit on Trade, Business and Investment Opportunities between Bangladesh and China." She will also meet with Wang Huning, Chairman of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and pay her respects at Tiananmen Square.
On July 10, she will hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, during which about 20 MoUs will be signed. The day will conclude with a meeting with President Xi Jinping, followed by the issuance of a joint statement. The Prime Minister will return to Dhaka on July 11.
Bangladesh-China Relations
Despite initial opposition to Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, China recognized Bangladesh on August 31, 1975. Foreign Minister Mahmud highlighted the historical context of Bangladesh-China relations, noting the visit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to China in 1952 and the subsequent mutual cooperation. Relations were elevated to a "Strategic Cooperation Partnership" during Xi Jinping's visit to Dhaka in 2016.
“We are hopeful that the upcoming visit will be successful and fruitful,” Dr. Mahmud concluded, expressing optimism about strengthening bilateral ties further.