Chinese EV manufacturer encouraged to invest in Bangladesh

Touhid emphasizes China's role in resolving the Rohingya crisis

During his bilateral visit to China on Thursday, Bangladesh’s interim government foreign affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain urged an electric vehicle manufacturer to consider establishing a plant in Bangladesh. This request was made during a visit to a high-tech EV manufacturing facility on the outskirts of Shanghai, where he toured the production line that manufactures about 500 EV units daily, according to a foreign ministry press release from Shanghai.

The adviser urged the Chinese company to consider setting up a similar plant in Bangladesh.

Earlier in the day, he delivered a keynote address on “Our Shared Vision for Peace, Stability, and Prosperity” at a seminar hosted by the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies.

Regarding the Rohingya crisis, Touhid Hossain emphasized the need to create a conducive environment in the Rakhine state for the safe return of the Rohingyas.

“Both Bangladesh and China have vital interests in resolving the conflict, and we must cooperate wholeheartedly in bringing about a resolution,” said the foreign affairs adviser.

To achieve the shared vision, he stressed the importance of strengthening multilateral institutions, expanding investments, enhancing people-to-people exchanges, and advocating for a global trade system, as outlined in the release.

The event began with a welcome address by Chen Dongxiao, president of the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, who highlighted the historic and evolving partnership between Bangladesh and China. He expressed optimism that the seminar would enhance academic and research collaborations between the two nations and further their contributions to global peace and stability.

In his keynote speech, Touhid presented a forward-looking vision for global peace, emphasizing economic cooperation as a crucial foundation for sustainable development and stability.

Touhid also highlighted the long-standing historical ties between Bangladesh and China, which have evolved into a dynamic partnership through various initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative.

The foreign affairs adviser noted China’s significant role in Bangladesh’s socio-economic development, particularly through its development assistance and investments across various sectors.

He also emphasized the need to address trade imbalances and improve regional connectivity to foster equitable growth.

Reflecting on global challenges, the adviser stated that peace and security are collective responsibilities that require inclusive economic frameworks and greater focus on empowering marginalized groups, especially youth and women.

The seminar brought together scholars, diplomats, government officials, young researchers, media representatives, senior leaders, and experts from the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, as well as officials from the Shanghai Foreign Affairs Office.

Touhid Hossain also met with a delegation from the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce on Wednesday evening, where they discussed relocating Chinese manufacturing plants to Bangladesh, particularly within the Chinese Special Economic Zone in Chattogram, establishing air connectivity between Chattogram and Shanghai, and fostering exchange and collaboration between the two chambers.

The foreign affairs adviser is set to conclude his five-day official visit today, returning home at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart.