China has stated that it is willing to strengthen its cooperation and build political trust with Bangladesh, especially through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). On January 18, 2025, the Chinese Foreign Ministry published this statement, emphasizing the continued dedication to enhancing bilateral ties.
China is committed to strengthening political mutual confidence, advancing Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) collaboration, and increasing people-to-people contacts, according to Guo Jiakun, the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson. The fact that this year will also be known as the “China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year” increases its significance.
Guo emphasized the value of respect and collaboration between the two countries, adding that China is willing to collaborate closely with Bangladesh on a number of levels in order to develop their all-encompassing strategic cooperative alliance. He pointed out that China’s backing is unwavering and that it has established itself as a trustworthy ally during this time of transition, even in the face of recent political upheavals in Bangladesh, including severe turmoil and a change in government.
China wants to increase political trust with Bangladesh, which is consistent with a long-standing alliance marked by respect for one another’s sovereignty.
Under the BRI framework, which has been essential in promoting Bangladesh’s economic development, the Chinese government is eager to expand high-quality collaboration. It is anticipated that this move will improve commercial relations between the two countries and make infrastructure projects easier.
In 2025, both nations anticipate commemorating the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, which will provide a chance to organize further joint ventures and initiatives.
In the meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his state visit to China, which took place from January 14–17, 2025. Dissanayake’s first official travel to China after assuming office in September 2024 was noteworthy because it followed his December 2024 visit to India.
In order to strengthen bilateral ties, 15 cooperation agreements were signed at the meeting between Xi and Dissanayake. In order to support Sri Lanka’s post-crisis economic recovery efforts, these agreements included clauses pertaining to economic development, agricultural exports, and alignment with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
With the goal of a comprehensive strategic cooperative cooperation that benefits both countries, this commitment highlights China’s strategic interest in Bangladesh as a vital South Asian partner.
