China has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing political trust and expanding cooperation with Bangladesh, ahead of the visit of Bangladesh’s Interim Government Foreign Affairs Adviser, Hossain, from January 20 to 24.
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized China’s readiness to deepen ties with Bangladesh through political collaboration, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, and people-to-people exchanges. “China and Bangladesh are traditional friendly neighbors. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, both sides have treated each other with respect and supported each other’s core interests,” Guo said during a press briefing.
He further highlighted that the upcoming year marks significant milestones in the relationship, including the 50th anniversary of China-Bangladesh diplomatic ties and the “China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year.” Guo stated, “China stands ready to work with Bangladesh to strengthen interactions, enhance political trust, and deepen high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.”
India has consistently opposed China’s Belt and Road Initiative, citing sovereignty concerns, as parts of the BRI pass through Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has raised objections to China’s activities in the region, calling them a violation of India’s territorial integrity.
Guo also detailed the outcomes of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s state visit to China from January 14 to 17. This marked President Dissanayake’s first visit to China since assuming office. During the visit, President Xi Jinping and Dissanayake held talks to deepen the strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations.
Key agreements were signed during the visit, including those related to the Belt and Road Initiative, agricultural exports, public welfare, and media cooperation. Guo noted, “The two sides reached important common understandings on deepening China-Sri Lanka relations and jointly building a China-Sri Lanka community with a shared future.”
China emphasized its commitment to fostering stronger ties with Sri Lanka, describing the relationship as a historic opportunity for both nations. Guo added, “China stands ready to work with Sri Lanka to deepen strategic cooperation, enhance mutual assistance, and bring more benefits to the two countries and their people.”
China’s engagements with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka highlight its growing focus on building strategic partnerships in South Asia. By leveraging initiatives like the Belt and Road, China aims to solidify its influence in the region while promoting infrastructure development and economic collaboration. As both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka navigate geopolitical and economic challenges, their partnerships with China are likely to remain significant in shaping their future trajectories.
