Chinese Vice Minister: China has the potential to be one of Bangladesh’s closest allies

Chinese Vice Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), Sun Haiyan, stated on Wednesday that China could be one of Bangladesh’s most trusted and special friends.  

Speaking at a meeting in Beijing with a distinguished Bangladeshi delegation comprising leaders from eight political parties, students, scholars, and journalists, Sun highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic geographical location. She emphasized the importance of maintaining stable and amicable relations with reliable neighbors who value peace, coexistence, and shared development opportunities while respecting each other’s sovereignty.  

She expressed China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s return to its path of rapid development, noting that while Bangladesh maintains good relations with all countries, some friends are more trusted than others. “We believe China can be one of those trusted friends,” she said.  

Sun also underscored China’s consistency in both foreign and domestic policies, pledging continued support for Bangladesh during its upcoming electoral and governmental transitions. She encouraged Bangladeshi political leaders to identify areas for deeper collaboration, stating that China is eager to contribute to Bangladesh’s progress and mutual prosperity.  

The Vice Minister reiterated China’s ongoing cooperation with Bangladesh in various sectors and expressed hope for further contributions. “If I visit Bangladesh next time, I hope to see a more developed Dhaka,” she remarked.  

The meeting was attended by a Bangladeshi delegation led by BNP Standing Committee Member Abdul Moyeen Khan. The 21-member group, representing eight political parties, arrived in China for an 11-day visit at the invitation of the Communist Party of China (CPC).  

Sun acknowledged the evolving global landscape and recent political shifts in Bangladesh, assuring that China’s strong bilateral ties with the country would remain stable. She also highlighted the CPC’s longstanding engagement with Bangladeshi political parties as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people relations.  

Encouraging Bangladesh to craft policies tailored to its own needs rather than following external models, Sun emphasized that both nations should work together based on mutual interests. She also offered China’s expertise in healthcare reform, pointing out the country’s affordable medical services and skilled professionals.  

Moyeen Khan, in response, expressed hope for strengthening China-Bangladesh ties and extended gratitude for China’s historical support, particularly in infrastructure, the garment industry, and military cooperation.  

He proposed three key areas for future collaboration: revitalizing China’s financial assistance to Bangladesh, helping Bangladesh develop its own garment raw material industry, and supporting the country’s advancement in AI and electric vehicle production.  

Moyeen also called for enhanced strategic cooperation with China, recognizing Bangladesh’s geopolitical significance.