Shawdesh desk:

Foreign minister Hasan Mahmud said that Chinese prime minister Li Qiang announced providing $ 1 billion in economic assistance to Bangladesh.

Hasan Mahmud made the announcement during a media briefing adding that the Chinese premier also expressed his desire to take the relations between Bangladesh and China to a new level.

There was a fruitful discussion between Bangladesh and China regarding all issues, added the foreign minister.

Hasan said Li Qiang recalled the relationship that was nurtured through the 1952 and 1957 visits of the country’s founding president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and six visits of Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to China.

Sheikh Hasina invited the Chinese president, prime minister and others to visit Bangladesh next year to celebrate the 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Both leaders emphasised celebrating the golden jubilee of the diplomatic relationship in a befitting manner.

Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation to resolve the Rohingya issue.

She emphasised reducing the trade gap with China. In reply, the Chinese prime minister talked about importing more products from Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina requested her Chinese counterpart to import leather products, jute products, pharmaceutical goods and ceramic products.

Both countries have agreed to work together to establish world peace and uphold humanity across the globe.

PM Hasina invited more Chinese investments in 100 special economic zones and Bangabandhu Industrial Park mentioning that Bangladesh has allotted one export processing zone for Chinese investors.

Sheikh Hasina pointed out the inclusion of Bangladesh in BRICS in any format. The Chinese prime minister assured her of their support regarding the inclusion.

Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation so that Bangladesh could enjoy the LDC facilities for at least three more years in its official graduation to Middle Income Country after 2026.

The Chinese prime minister gave a positive response.