Bangladesh seeks China's cooperation in Teesta project

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman has sought China's active participation and cooperation in the Teesta River Integrated Management and Restoration Project. He made the call during a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Wednesday (May 6).

The two countries reached consensus on various important issues including trade, investment, digital economy, water resources development and Rohingya repatriation during the meeting. This information was given in a joint statement issued by the foreign ministries of the two countries from Beijing.

Dr. Khalilur Rahman left for a three-day visit to China at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday (May 5). This is his first visit to China as Foreign Minister, which will continue until May 7.

In the meeting, both countries agreed to further expand high-quality 'Belt and Road' cooperation. In addition, discussions were held on enhancing mutual cooperation in trade, investment, industrialization, healthcare and digital economy. Bangladesh congratulated China on the successful launch of China's 15th Five-Year Plan.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the existing ‘Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership’ between the two countries. They also agreed to follow the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and continue high-level visits and contacts.

In the meeting, Bangladesh once again expressed its full support for the ‘One China’ policy. Bangladesh clearly stated that Taiwan is an integral part of China and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legitimate government of the whole of China. At the same time, China assured its continued support for Bangladesh in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Bangladesh welcomed the initiative of President Xi Jinping to build a ‘Community with a Shared Future for Mankind’. In addition, the meeting also praised China’s various global initiatives to maintain world peace and stability.

The establishment of peace and stability in the Middle East was also discussed between the two countries. Both sides stressed the importance of an immediate ceasefire, ensuring the safety of civilians, and maintaining normal commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

In addition, the repatriation of Rohingyas displaced from Myanmar's Rakhine State and seeking refuge in Bangladesh was also discussed. Beijing said that China will continue to support an acceptable solution to the crisis through dialogue and negotiations between Bangladesh and Myanmar. At the same time, it has also promised to continue providing necessary assistance for the repatriation of Rohingyas.

After the meeting, Dr. Khalilur Rahman thanked the Chinese government and Foreign Minister Wang Yi for extending warm hospitality to him and his delegation. He also invited Wang Yi to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time.