[🇧🇩] China is a Time Tested Friend and a Strategic Partner of Bangladesh

[Saif]

China: From copycat to innovator

I have just wrapped up an extraordinary week in Shenzhen and Guangzhou as part of the study tour to China, organised by the Stars Foundation, Switzerland. This dynamic programme brought together a vibrant group of global leaders and offered an amazing opportunity to learn directly from...

www.thedailystar.net

China: From copycat to innovator

I have just wrapped up an extraordinary week in Shenzhen and Guangzhou as part of the study tour to China, organised by the Stars Foundation, Switzerland. This dynamic programme brought together a vibrant group of global leaders and offered an amazing opportunity to learn directly from international champions, unicorns, and start-ups.

From autonomous vehicles to AI-powered cityscapes and sustainable technology, the tour provided on-the-ground insights into the state of China's economy and the opportunities it presents for foreign businesses.

Beyond the technological marvels, what stood out to me was China's structured, intentional approach to encouraging innovation. As I return inspired, I would like to share a few key learnings from this journey that may be useful not only for businesses but also for policymakers, educators, and entrepreneurs.

The days when China was merely replicating Western technology are over. Today, homegrown giants are setting global benchmarks in AI, electric vehicles, and quantum computing. This shift from imitation to invention is no accident; it is the result of strategic investment in research and development, education, and talent cultivation.

China's evolution offers a model for any country aiming for long-term competitiveness. Moving from dependency to originality demands deep investment in STEM education and high-tech research.

The innovation boom in China is not only market-driven but also policy-led. Government support through subsidies, tax benefits, R&D incentives, and infrastructure development has played a vital role in transforming ideas into scalable businesses. Programmes such as "Made in China 2025" and state-backed venture capital funds ensure breakthroughs in AI, 5G, and green energy lead to commercial success. Effective innovation requires public-private synergy, and governments must create enabling environments through funding, regulatory sandboxes, and research grants to drive technological progress.

Cities such as Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing have become innovation hubs by concentrating talent, capital, and infrastructure in one place. Shenzhen's transformation from a fishing village into a global tech powerhouse is an example of how geography-based strategy and urban clustering can catalyse innovation.

Entrepreneurs in China are moving fast, experimenting boldly, and scaling globally. A lack of fear around failure, coupled with a massive domestic market to test ideas, allows companies to iterate rapidly. This bold, risk-taking mindset is valuable for anyone navigating fast-changing business environments or aiming to use local markets as testing grounds before international expansion. To encourage this culture, companies must invest in the right talent. China is placing strong emphasis on producing experts in AI, engineering, science, and R&D.

Chinese firms are no longer only competing globally; they are collaborating as well, partnering with Western companies, co-investing, and sharing knowledge. This shift from zero-sum rivalry to shared innovation is reshaping the idea of globalisation. Large companies are now engaged in joint research, co-developing products, and investing in global ventures.

The future belongs to cross-border alliances. Nations and businesses alike can learn from China the value of seeking strategic partnerships over adversarial competition.

One of China's greatest advantages is its ability to deploy innovation at scale and speed. Whether it is electric vehicle adoption, AI integration, or smart city infrastructure, execution velocity sets Chinese firms apart.

From Chinese companies, I have learnt that innovation is not just about ideas. It is about how quickly and efficiently they are executed. That means streamlining regulatory processes, supply chains, and market strategies to stay ahead.

The writer is the chief business officer at The Daily Star.​

 

[Saif]

Chinese envoy meets BNP delegation led by Fakhrul

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on a BNP delegation, led by party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir

en.prothomalo.com

Chinese envoy meets BNP delegation led by Fakhrul

UNBDhaka
Published: 08 Jul 2025, 22: 04

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen paid a courtesy call on a BNP delegation, led by party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, on Tuesday.

The meeting was held at around 11 am at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan political office, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan.

He said the Chinese envoy had a cordial discussion with the BNP leaders, following their recent visit to China.

Apart from Fakhrul, BNP Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Begum Selima Rahman and the BNP Chairperson’s Special Assistant ABM Abdus Sattar were present.

Details of the discussion were not disclosed, but party sources said they exchanged views on matters of mutual interest.

On 22 June, a high-level nine-member BNP delegation, led by Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, visited China for five days at the invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC).​

 

[Saif]

Beijing seeks to fast-track investment treaty with Dhaka, no matter who leads!

We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly, said Ambassador Yao while speaking at a seminar.

en.prothomalo.com

Beijing seeks to fast-track investment treaty with Dhaka, no matter who leads!

UNB Dhaka
Published: 09 Jul 2025, 19: 17

Chinese ambassador in Bangladesh, Yao Wen Tanvir Ahmed

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Wednesday said no matter who leads Bangladesh, China will continue to increase trade and investment in the country, supporting its sustainable development and the improvement of people's livelihoods.

Speaking at a seminar in the capital, he said a sound investment environment requires institutional safeguards and hoped that Bangladesh will work with China towards the same direction to expedite the launch of negotiations on upgrading the Bangladesh-China bilateral investment treaty and Free Trade Agreement (FTI) between the two countries.

He said these efforts will help further bolster the confidence and determination of Chinese enterprises to invest in Bangladesh.

“We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly,” said Ambassador Yao while speaking at the seminar.

Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, who spoke at the seminar, said they have a tendency of promising things nut not delivering.

“But in the government, we are trying to change that attitude and culture. Hopefully, you will see significant improvement,” he said.

China has become the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) hosted the seminar titled ‘China-Bangladesh Industrial and Supply Chain Cooperation’ where ‘Industry Reports’ by the CEAB was released.

Executive Chairman of Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, along with representatives from the concerned agencies and departments of the Bangladesh government and business leaders from both countries were present.

He said China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to follow the strategic guidance of the two leaders’ important consensus, take the Golden Jubilee as a new starting point, advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, promote the integration of industrial and supply chains as well as investment and trade.

“Together, we can elevate our economic and trade relations to new heights, and further contribute to the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” he said.

The conference featured in-depth research reports from specialised branches of CEAB, covering power and energy, roads and bridges, harbor, textile and garments, trade and services, railway and civil aviation, information and communication technology and water and environment.

These reports aim to identify market trends, investment opportunities and challenges, facilitating collaboration between Bangladeshi and Chinese enterprises under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Ambassador Yao said with the joint efforts of both countries, Chinese enterprises will continue to thrive in Bangladesh and contribute to its economic and social development as well as the improvement of people's livelihoods.

In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times. Since last August, nearly 20 Chinese companies have signed investment agreements with Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million.

At Bangladesh’s current stage of development, he said, improving the business environment is crucial for fostering an open economy and achieving steady and sustainable development.

“Now, Bangladesh is also at a critical juncture of transformation and industrial upgrading. Under the able leadership of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, the economy keeps stabilising and improving, and the business environment is steadily enhancing, making the country emerge as a new investment hotspot in South Asia,” Ambassador Yao said.

Since Chinese enterprises constitute the largest group of foreign investors in Bangladesh, he said, it would be invaluable for the Bangladeshi friends to hear from their experiences and suggestions, which originate from their long-term operations here and are reflected in these ten reports.

“They crystallise the collective wisdom of Chinese enterprises in Bangladesh. I believe that they will serve as an important reference for the ongoing economic reforms in Bangladesh,” the Ambassador said.

In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times. Since last August, nearly 20 Chinese companies have signed investment agreements with Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million.

China has become the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

The Chattogram Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone is about to start construction.

The cooperation documents for the Chinese Agrivoltaics Economic Zone at Baherchar Island have been signed, and the China-Bangladesh Mongla Port Economic Zone is progressing steadily, the Ambassador said.

He said China not only supports the current interim government but also has full confidence in Bangladesh’s future elected government.​

 

[Saif]

China committed to boosting trade, investment ties with Bangladesh

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing trade and investment in Bangladesh, stating that support for the country's development will remain steady regardless of its political leadership. "China will continue to support Bangladesh's sustainable development and the

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

China committed to boosting trade, investment ties with Bangladesh
Says Chinese envoy

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 10, 2025 10:02
Updated :
Jul 10, 2025 10:02

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen. File photo

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen has reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing trade and investment in Bangladesh, stating that support for the country's development will remain steady regardless of its political leadership.

"China will continue to support Bangladesh's sustainable development and the improvement of people's livelihoods, no matter who is in power," he said while addressing a seminar on 'China-Bangladesh industrial and supply chain cooperation' at a city hotel on Wednesday.

The Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB), the organiser of the seminar, also launched a set of detailed industry reports covering key sectors such as energy, transport, ICT, and water management.

The Chinese envoy stressed the importance of a sound institutional framework to attract investment and urged Bangladesh to accelerate negotiations on upgrading bilateral investment treaty and launching a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.

"We sincerely hope that our Bangladeshi friends will take it seriously and act promptly," he said.

Highlighting the recent developments, he said since last August nearly 20 Chinese firms have signed investment deals worth over US$400 million with Bangladeshi partners.

In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 3.7 times, the envoy said, adding that now China is the largest source of foreign direct investment in Bangladesh since the interim government took office.

Ambassador Yao praised the country's ongoing reforms and economic transformation under the leadership of Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus.

"At this critical juncture of industrial upgrading, Bangladesh is emerging as a new investment hotspot in South Asia," he noted.

He also called for continued collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative, stating: "Together, we can elevate economic and trade relations to new heights and further contribute to the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership."

Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun acknowledged challenges in the country's investment environment.

"We have a tendency to promise but not deliver. However, the government is working to change this culture. Hopefully, you will see significant improvements," he said.

He further said a BIDA office will soon be established to facilitate Chinese investment and proposed the creation of a China Town in Dhaka to strengthen ties further.

Other senior officials, including Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Jalal Ahmed, ICT Secretary Sheesh Haider Chowdhury and representatives from various ministries addressed the seminar.

CEAB President Han Kun and senior officials from shipping, industries, roads, and water supply departments also spoke on the occasion.

"China is our trusted friend and the top trading partner," Mr. Jalal Ahmed said, highlighting potential for deeper cooperation in the energy sector.

ICT Secretary Chowdhury mentioned China's involvement in Bangladesh's high-tech and cybersecurity sectors and welcomed more investment, especially in high-tech parks.

Replying to question, Ambassador Yao told reporters that the recent tripartite meeting, involving Bangladesh, China, and Pakistan, was held in Kunming, China.

Terming the meeting a step toward "concrete cooperation" in 12 identified areas, including education, environment, water resources, and industry, he said: "Our cooperation is based on mutual trust and openness. It is not aimed at any third country.

Chinese ambassador expressed his confidence in Bangladesh's current and future governments, stating that Chinese enterprises are ready to play a larger role in the country's economic and social progress.​

 

[Saif]

No peace through concession -- only struggle secures Tomorrow

On July 7, the United States once again wielded the tariff stick, imposing so-called "reciprocal tariffs" on 14 of its trading partners, including Bangladesh. By conducting such unilateral bullying behavior, the U.S. putsits selfish gains over the global public good, and disrupts the multilateral t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

No peace through concession -- only struggle secures Tomorrow

Yao Wen
Published :
Jul 11, 2025 23:28
Updated :
Jul 11, 2025 23:28

On July 7, the United States once again wielded the tariff stick, imposing so-called "reciprocal tariffs" on 14 of its trading partners, including Bangladesh. By conducting such unilateral bullying behavior, the U.S. putsits selfish gains over the global public good, and disrupts the multilateral trading system. It also severely undermines the normal international trade order, and has provoked worldwide anger and opposition.

China firmly opposes the U.S. actions. It maintains that there's no winner in tariff and trade wars, and that protectionism harms the interests of all parties. Imposing tariffs is not the right solution. If more countries follow the U.S. example by raising tariffs and focusing solely on their own interests, the world will be further divided, and plunge back to the law of the jungle, where the strong prey on the weak. No country will be immune to it, and everyone will become a victim.

Faced with U.S. bullying and coercion, what will China do? History and reality have taught us that peace can only be preserved through struggle, while compromise leads only to its demise. China's policy has been firm and consistent: If the U.S. wants to fight, we will fight to the end; if it wants to talk, the door remains open. If the United States intends to decouple from China, it is decoupling from opportunities and development, and moving backward in history.

With China's resolute struggle, the U.S. has repeatedly requested economic and trade negotiations with China. After thorough consideration, China agreed to engage in talks with America. In May, the China-U.S. high-level economic and trade meeting in Geneva yielded positive outcomes. After that, from June 9-10, the two sides held the first meeting of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism in London. A principled consensus was reached on implementing the important mutual understanding reached in the phone conversation between the two leaders, and furthering the results of the Geneva meeting. New progress was made in resolving the economic and trade concerns of both sides.

The de-escalation of China-U.S. trade tensions benefits both countries and the world at large. The image of China as a responsible, reliable, and trustworthy nation has taken root in the hearts of people around the world.

China's practice of safeguarding its own interests and upholding global economic and trade rules boils down to two principles: First, resolute counterattack and counter-check in kind. Second, no acceptance of anyforced treaty of peace. Negotiations must be conducted on an equal footing based on mutual respect. This approach also offers valuable experience for other countries victimized by America's abuse of tariffs.

Bangladesh boasts its position as the world's second-largest exporter of ready-made garments(RMG). It is earned not by chance but through the hard work of its diligent people. Over 80 per cent of Bangladesh's exports to the U.S. consist of affordable, high-quality RMG, which meets American market demand with lower prices, delivering an excellent consumer experience for the American people.

It is a direct beneficiary of trade with Bangladesh, and it is universally known that the U.S. is the biggest beneficiary of economic globalization and trade liberalization. The world owes the U.S. nothing, and neither does Bangladesh.

China firmly supports Bangladesh in safeguarding its interests and hopes to see Bangladesh resolve its economic and trade differences with the U.S. through equal consultations. China also believes that Bangladesh will resolutely defend international economic and trade rules and the multilateral trading system, always standing on the side of fairness, justice, and the right side of history.

China will continue to support Bangladesh's economic and social development and improvement of people's livelihoods through concrete actions. Over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations, win-win cooperation has always been the essence of China-Bangladesh trade ties. Against the backdrop of increasing global uncertainties-notably the challenges posed to China, Bangladesh and other countries by America's indiscriminate tariff measures, China remains committed to working hand in hand with Bangladesh towards common development and shared prosperity, firmly delivering benefits to the peoples of both nations.

China has remained Bangladesh's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. From January to May this year, China exported US$3.47 billion's worth of textile intermediates to Bangladesh, a 5 percent growth year-on-year. At the end of May this year, the first shipment of fresh Bangladeshi mangoes successfully entered the Chinese market. China is also actively accelerating the approval process for the import of other quality Bangladeshi agricultural products, including jackfruit and guava.

In particular, China's zero-tariff treatment policy on 100% of taxable items of Bangladeshi products which will extend until the end of 2028, has created significant opportunities for its development. In contrast, the United States has imposed a 35% tariff on Bangladesh, one of the least developed countries in the world, which is both unreasonable and unethical.

China-Bangladesh cooperation in investment has also yielded fruitful results. In the first quarter of this year, Chinese investment in Bangladesh surged by 370%. Since the formation of the interim government, nearly 20 Chinese enterprises have signed investment agreements with their Bangladeshi partners, with a total intended investment exceeding US$400 million, making China the largest investor in Bangladesh since the formation of the interim government.

On 1 June, China's Minister of Commerce Mr. Wang Wentao led a delegation of nearly 150 Chinese enterprises to visit Bangladesh. Among them, more than 40 companies expressed investment intentions in such sectors as agriculture and fisheries, textiles and garments, clean energy, and tourism development. Breakthroughs have been achieved in the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone Project, the Agricultural-PV Integration Park on Banshkhali Island, and the China-Bangladesh Mongla Port Economic Zone (CBMPEZ). I am confident that in the near future, China will become Bangladesh's largest source of foreign investment.

China-Bangladesh cooperation is also deeply rooted in people's livelihoods, bringing tangible benefits to the Bangladeshi people. Chinese hospitals are open to Bangladeshi patients seeking medical treatment. China has donated medical equipment worth over US$2.1 million to Bangladesh, including automated rehabilitation center, ventilators and mobile surgical vehicle, as well as dengue testing kits worth US$42,000 and more than 15,000 COVID-19 test kits. To support Bangladesh in flood relief, China has provided life-saving equipment including inflatable boats, life vests, and generators worth US$1.5 million.

Furthermore, China will assist in constructing a modern, 1000-bed comprehensive hospital in Bangladesh. The China-aided Burn Unit of Chittagong Medical College Hospital is under construction. China is also positively considering building a residential hall for female students at the University of Dhaka. China is always ready to provide support to Bangladesh within its capacity, helping the friendship between the two countries blossom like flowers in the hearts of both peoples.

As Bangladesh strives to uphold its development rights, defend against external shocks, and safeguard its independence, sovereignty, and core interests, China will stand firmly by its side-as its most reliable friend and development partner. Guided by the important consensus reached by the two leaders during the visit of Hon'ble Chief Adviser to China in March this year, and taking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as a new starting point, China will continue to work hand in hand with Bangladesh, and strive to advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, further deepen the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and jointly safeguard international fairness and justice.

Yao Wen is ambassador of People's Republic of China to Bangladesh​

 

[Saif]

China, Canada vow stronger trade, Rohingya aid

China and Canada expressed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and humanitarian cooperation with Bangladesh while assuring continued support to address the protracted Rohingya crisis...

www.newagebd.net

China, Canada vow stronger trade, Rohingya aid
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 11 July, 2025, 01:15

China and Canada expressed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and humanitarian cooperation with Bangladesh while assuring continued support to address the protracted Rohingya crisis.

The assurances came during separate meetings between foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain and the foreign ministers of China and Canada on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum ministerial meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, according to message.

During Touhid’s meeting with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, both sides expressed satisfaction over the trajectory of bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation across priority sectors.

Wang Yi conveyed Beijing’s full support for the ongoing reform initiatives under the interim government, led by chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, assuring cooperation in areas including medical tourism and water management.

The Chinese minister also reiterated his country’s keen interest in expanding investments in Bangladesh, particularly in the textile, energy, and light engineering sectors, following the recent China Investment Conference in Dhaka.

Touhid, expressing deep appreciation for China’s political and development support, underscored the urgent need for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis and sought Beijing’s continued support in this regard.

He also expressed Dhaka’s expectations of Beijing’s cooperation at regional and multilateral platforms, including the United Nations regarding the Rohingya crisis.

Later in the day, the adviser met Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand, where discussions centred on expanding bilateral relations with a focus on trade diversification and building resilience in the Bangladesh-Canada partnership.

Anita reaffirmed Ottawa’s support in addressing the longstanding Rohingya crisis and lauded Bangladesh’s continued humanitarian efforts in hosting the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals.

Bangladesh high commissioner to Malaysia Md Shameem Ahsan, director general at the ministry of foreign affairs Md Forhadul Islam, and other senior officials were present during the meetings.

The foreign adviser is leading the Bangladesh delegation at the 32nd ARF ministerial meeting, scheduled to be held on Friday, where Bangladesh is expected to highlight its commitment to regional peace, security, and sustainable development under the current interim government.​