Bangladesh seeks energy assistance from China: Yao Wen

Bangladesh has sought energy assistance from China in the context of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Chinese Ambassador to Dhaka Yao Wen has said.

He made this remark while speaking to journalists after a meeting with Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury at the Secretariat on Monday, March 9.

Yao Wen said China is interested in cooperating with Bangladesh to tackle the energy crisis. However, Beijing has asked for details on what type of energy assistance Bangladesh requires.

Several priority projects of the new government were also discussed during the meeting, he added. "Positive discussions have been held between the two countries on various issues including economy, trade and investment."

Yao Wen said the Teesta project is one of the priority projects of the new government and China. Both sides are optimistic about commencing work on this project quickly. Discussions were also held on new loan facilities and investment.

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said within the first three weeks of the new government's formation, four Chinese companies have pledged to invest approximately 100 million dollars in Bangladesh. If these investments materialise, employment opportunities for nearly 10,000 people may be created.