Chinese delegation explores Panam City in Sonargaon to strengthen cultural cooperation

A six-member Chinese delegation, led by Li Qun, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, recently visited Panam City in Sonargaon to enhance cultural exchange and cooperation between China and Bangladesh.  

During their visit on Saturday, the delegation was accompanied by Narayanganj Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah, Regional Director of the Department of Archaeology (Dhaka and Mymensingh divisions) Afroza Khan Mita, Sonargaon Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Rahman, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Manjurul Morshed, along with other police and administrative officials.  

According to a Facebook post by Panam Nagar Sonargaon, the visit aimed to explore potential collaborations in heritage conservation and cultural preservation.  

Sharing the post on Sunday, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki expressed optimism, stating, “Something great must happen soon! Panam Nagar is at the centre of our vision.”  

Panam City, a historic site in Sonargaon, was once a bustling trading hub during the Bengal Sultanate and later under Mughal rule. Renowned for its unique blend of Mughal and colonial-era architecture, the city remains a vital heritage site in Bangladesh.  

However, in recent years, it has faced threats from urban encroachment and environmental degradation, underscoring the need for conservation efforts.  

China and Bangladesh have previously collaborated on cultural preservation, and experts believe that strengthened cooperation could aid in restoring and safeguarding the rich history of Panam City.  

During the holy month of Ramadan, Panam City will be open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, between 10:00 AM and 4:30 PM, with a short break from 1:15 PM to 1:30 PM. On Fridays, visiting hours will be from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM, while Sundays will remain a weekly holiday.