Foreign adviser's China trip: Topic of bilateral discussion

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain is scheduled to undertake a significant diplomatic trip to China from January 20 to 24, 2025. This visit, at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, marks Hossain's first bilateral engagement since the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, assumed office in August 2024.

Strengthening bilateral relations

The primary objective of this visit is to reinforce the longstanding ties between Bangladesh and China, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Discussions are expected to cover a broad spectrum of topics, including economic cooperation, trade expansion, investment opportunities, and infrastructure development. Both countries aim to explore avenues to rebalance trade dynamics, as the current annual trade volume of approximately $25 billion is skewed in favour of China.

While the detailed agenda is being finalised, several critical issues are anticipated to be at the forefront of the discussions during his trip to China.

Economic and trade cooperation

Efforts to enhance trade relations and attract increased Chinese investment into Bangladesh will be pivotal. The focus will be on sectors such as agriculture, education, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

Rohingya crisis

Both nations are expected to deliberate on sustainable solutions to the Rohingya refugee situation, seeking collaborative approaches to address this humanitarian challenge.

Infrastructure projects

Reviewing the progress of ongoing projects and discussing future collaborations in infrastructure development will be a significant component of the talks. This includes projects previously agreed upon during former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to Beijing in July 2024, where 21 memorandums of understanding were signed, and seven new projects were announced.

Geopolitical considerations

This visit occurs against a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics in South Asia. Following the political upheaval in Bangladesh and the subsequent resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the interim government has been navigating complex relationships with major powers, including the United States, India, and China. China's interest in strengthening ties with Bangladesh is evident, particularly in light of the recent changes in the political landscape. Analysts suggest that Bangladesh must proceed with caution, ensuring that its foreign policy decisions align with national interests without adversely affecting relations with other key allies.

Economic challenges and opportunities

Bangladesh is currently facing economic challenges, including significant power sector liabilities. The interim government has been seeking international support to stabilise the economy. China's role as a major investor and trading partner positions it as a crucial player in Bangladesh's economic recovery efforts. The visit is expected to explore opportunities for financial aid, investment in critical sectors, and collaboration on large-scale infrastructure projects.

The outcomes of this visit could set the tone for Bangladesh's foreign relations in the coming years. Strengthening ties with China, while maintaining balanced relationships with other global powers, will be essential for Bangladesh's strategic positioning. The discussions held and agreements reached during this visit are anticipated to have long-term implications for the nation's economic development and geopolitical alliances.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain's upcoming visit to China represents a pivotal moment in Bangladesh's diplomatic endeavors. With a focus on enhancing bilateral relations, addressing economic challenges, and navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, the visit holds the potential to significantly influence the future trajectory of Bangladesh-China relations.

Mohammed Nore-Alam, director general for East Asia and Pacific wing of the foreign ministry, responded told the Views Bangladesh, “After talking with various ministries and divisions, we've decided not to set a specific agenda for foreign adviser’s meeting in China.”

“Instead, we'll ask China for suggestions during the formal meeting in Beijing. Then, we'll discuss and finalise the agenda based on their input. Our main focus will be on strengthening trade relations. Local businessmen suggested an FTA with China, but the interim government rejected it, fearing it could widen the trade gap between Beijing and Dhaka,” he said.

Alam said, “We also want to discuss how to smoothly proceed with Chinese-funded projects in Bangladesh. We're looking for attract investments in renewable energy, environmental protection, manufacturing, education, health, agriculture, and other infrastructure to help tackle our current economic challenges.”

“The Rohingya issue will be a priority, as we're struggling to manage it. We've decided not to bring up recent developments in our relationships with India and the USA initially. Instead, we'll listen to China first and address those issues later to protect our mutual interests.”

The foreign ministry official also said, “Given the sensitive geopolitical situation in the region, we're cautious about making decisions that could strain our relationships with other countries like the USA and India. We're keen to hear from our Chinese counterparts about future plans for our diplomatic and bilateral ties, and we aim to increase people-to-people contact to achieve our shared goals.”