Bullet train beckons on Dhaka-Chattogram route!

A comprehensive outline of new possibilities in Bangladesh-China relations has been unveiled. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, highlighted the potential for high-speed bullet trains in the country and Beijing's plans for advanced technological cooperation. He stated that work on the Bangladesh-China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (BCM) is progressing, and the possibility of utilizing China's high-speed rail technology in Bangladesh is being seriously considered.

Meanwhile, he reaffirmed Beijing's strong commitment to providing full technical and financial assistance for the implementation of the Teesta Megaproject, further opening the Chinese market to Bangladeshi products, and actively mediating the Rohingya crisis.

This important seminar was held on Saturday, July 18, at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital. The 'Bangladesh-China Friendship Association' organized this special discussion titled "Long Live Bangladesh-China Friendship." Speakers noted that recent high-level state visits have elevated the strategic partnership between the two nations to one of the best periods in history.

Speaking as the chief guest, Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, and Secretary General of BNP, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "China is now a massive economic power. If Bangladesh can leverage the magical development of their science and technology, we can move far ahead. The way our youth are enhancing technological exchange through education and trade in China will take the relationship between the two countries to the highest level. Instead of just reducing import dependence, China will play a more effective role in protecting mutual interests by standing beside Bangladesh in developing the energy sector, technical education, agriculture, and communication infrastructure. In our country of 200 million people, China's technology and investment are extremely urgent to create employment for about 40 million unemployed youths. In the future, opportunities may arise to introduce high-speed trains on important routes, including Dhaka-Chittagong."

Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said, "Bangladesh wants China by its side to resolve the Rohingya refugee problem. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit has elevated diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China to a unique height. This friendship has been further strengthened in recent times through trade, infrastructure development, and strategic cooperation. The bilateral relations and partnership between the two countries will become even stronger. Currently, Bangladesh imports goods worth about 20 billion US dollars annually from China. Conversely, Bangladesh's exports to China amount to less than one billion dollars. The Chinese government has a sincere interest in reducing this trade imbalance and increasing Bangladesh's exports. This interest of China in enhancing Bangladesh's export capacity is the most important strategic foundation of the relationship between the two countries. Bangladesh-China friendship will grow stronger out of mutual necessity and interest."

In his speech as the special guest, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen said, "The relationship between Bangladesh and China is currently at one of the best stages in history. Recent high-level visits have further strengthened the strategic partnership between the two countries. China is committed to providing long-term cooperation to Bangladesh in key areas such as development, trade, communication, and regional stability. China is working sincerely to implement the Teesta River Megaproject. The feasibility study of the project is progressing rapidly, and Beijing is ready to provide the necessary technical and financial assistance. Once implemented, this project will bring positive changes to water management, agriculture, and the environment in the northern region." Regarding jackfruit exports, he said, "During the Prime Minister's recent visit to China, an important protocol was signed regarding the export of fresh jackfruit from Bangladesh. As a result, after mangoes, the country's national fruit, jackfruit, will also have the opportunity to enter China's massive consumer market, opening up new possibilities in the agricultural economy."

Regarding Rohingya repatriation, the Ambassador stated, "A new political reality has emerged in Myanmar. In this situation, China will continue its mediating role to advance dialogue between Bangladesh and Myanmar and find a sustainable solution. The relationship between Bangladesh and China is a bright example of mutual trust, respect, development cooperation, and long-standing friendship. Cooperation between the two countries in various fields, including infrastructure development, trade, investment, technology, education, health, agriculture, and cultural exchange, will expand further in the coming days."

The event was also attended by Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Tourism MA Rashiduzzaman Millat, Sanjida Islam Tuli, Shamsur রহমান Shimul Biswas, and Advocate Nazmul Haq Nannu, President of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Association and Advisor to the BNP Chairperson.
//DBTech/AIM/SME//