China can be Bangladesh's key strategic partner: Info Minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said China has the potential to become Bangladesh's most important strategic partner, underscoring the need to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and economic development.

Speaking at a programme organised by the Bangladesh-China Friendship Association (BCFA) in Dhaka on Saturday (July 18), Swapon said Bangladesh's economy and trade have become increasingly linked with China, making stronger economic ties a strategic necessity.

He noted that China is Bangladesh's second-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI), while also remaining the country's largest trading partner.

However, he pointed out that Bangladesh continues to face a significant trade imbalance, importing nearly $20 billion worth of goods annually from China while exporting less than $1 billion.

Swapon said Beijing has expressed strong interest in expanding imports from Bangladesh, describing the shared economic interests as the foundation of the two countries' strategic partnership.

"China has the capacity to become Bangladesh's most important strategic friend as we seek to accelerate economic growth and boost trade," he said.

The minister also stressed that today's regional and global geopolitics are increasingly driven by economic realities, making stronger engagement with China crucial for Bangladesh's long-term development agenda.

The event was attended by senior government officials, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, business leaders, diplomats and political figures.