The Chinese Ambassador emphasized that positive international relations stem from amicable connections among the populations, fostered through regular interactions.
The Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Bangladesh, firmly opposing any external interference. This commitment is aimed at ensuring the unity, stability, and progress of Bangladesh.
‘Bangladesh steadfastly upholds the one-China principle and recognizes the pivotal role that China plays in promoting regional peace and stability. Both sides are devoted to further expanding strategic cooperation, thus elevating China-Bangladesh relations to a new level in this era,’ said Yao Wen.
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Ambassador Yao Wen delivered this speech at a reception held to commemorate the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The Ambassador underscored the strong collaboration between Bangladesh and China in pursuing common development objectives.
China supports Bangladesh’s sovereignty
China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity was underscored by Ambassador Yao Wen. He expressed China’s strong stance against foreign interference, believing that such interference hinders a country’s ability to maintain internal unity and stability and achieve development and revival. Both countries are eager to deepen their strategic cooperation, paving the way for a new era in China-Bangladesh relations.
China’s Initiatives
China has implemented a series of measures to address the surging demand for international travel and people-to-people exchanges, according to Ambassador Yao.
Currently, there are 50 direct weekly flights connecting the two countries, providing the capacity to accommodate ten thousand passengers.
Highlighting the ongoing 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Ambassador Yao mentioned that Bangladesh has sent a delegation of top-tier athletes to participate.
He expressed his hope that these athletes will excel in the competitions, bringing recognition to Bangladesh on the world stage.
He also urged Chinese businesses operating in Bangladesh to actively embrace their social responsibilities. He also encouraged Chinese citizens residing in Bangladesh to deepen their integration within the local community, with the aim of making greater contributions to strengthening the friendship.
Strong Diplomatic Relations
Ambassador Yao underscored the importance of strong diplomatic relations stemming from close connections among their people, achieved through regular interactions. Strengthening people-to-people interactions and cultural exchanges aligns with the vital consensus reached by the leaders of China and Bangladesh.
“To be more specific, we have the potential to enhance collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development, information technology, new energy, agriculture, and more. By working together, we can certainly achieve the Chinese Dream of the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation and support Bangladesh’s Vision 2041,” he commented.
The Ambassador highlighted that strong international relations are built upon friendly connections among their citizens, facilitated by regular interactions. He added that it’s a significant agreement made by the leaders of China and Bangladesh to further enhance people-to-people engagement and cultural exchanges.
A Time-Tested Friendship
During the meeting, Ambassador Yao Wen tinted the enduring friendship between China and Bangladesh, calling them ‘long-standing allies’ with strong mutual trust. This trust was officially recognized in 2016 when Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina elevated their bilateral ties to a cooperative strategic partnership. The relationship was further strengthened when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visited China in 2019.
The recent successful meeting between the two leaders in South Africa marked a significant milestone, as it came after a four-year gap.
Last month, the two leaders convened a productive gathering in South Africa, marking the first meeting in four years. This meeting played a pivotal role in charting the course for the advancement of China-Bangladesh relations. Over the years, both sides have consistently supported each other’s core interests and addressed mutual concerns.
The event featured the esteemed presence of Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan as its chief guest. Among the distinguished attendees were Farooq Khan, the President of the Standing Committee on Foreign Ministry of Jatiya Sangsad; State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief, Dr. Md. Enamur Rahman; Army Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant General Ataul Hakim Sarwar Hasan; Quartermaster General, Lieutenant General Md. Saiful Alam, Alifa China, and their family members; heads of government agencies; representatives from military and political parties; leaders of diplomatic missions; as well as delegates from international organizations in Bangladesh, representatives of Chinese companies, the Confucius Institute, the Chinese community in Bangladesh, and members of the media and think tanks. On this occasion, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan served as the chief guest.
Ambassador Yao reiterated China’s unwavering commitment to enhancing its relationship with Bangladesh, emphasizing the Embassy’s dedication to elevating the strategic partnership between the two countries to new heights. With mutual respect, cooperation, and shared goals, China and Bangladesh are poised to continue their journey of mutual development and prosperity.
