Bangladesh should strengthen ties with China in national interest, says Fakhrul

The local government minister also stresses the need to maintain balanced ties with India, Europe, the United States and other countries

Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for stronger relations with China, saying it is in Bangladesh's national interest while stressing the need to maintain balanced ties with India, Europe, the United States and other countries.

Addressing a discussion titled "Long Live Bangladesh-China Relations", organised by the Bangladesh-China Friendship Association at a hotel in Dhaka on Saturday, the minister said the BNP had maintained political communication with China even while it was in opposition.

Fakhrul said China had expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Bangladesh in trade, investment, technology and infrastructure to support the country's development.

He also noted Beijing's assurance of continued support for a peaceful resolution of the Rohingya crisis.

Describing bilateral ties as historic, he said relations between Bangladesh and China had become deeper and more multidimensional over time.

The minister also described China's progress in science, technology and the economy as a major opportunity for Bangladesh.

He said the country's development could be accelerated by effectively utilising Chinese experience, technology and investment.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said Beijing was keen to further expand business, trade and investment with Bangladesh.

He reaffirmed China's commitment to continued bilateral cooperation and reiterated its support for resolving the Rohingya crisis through peaceful means.