Tarique Rahman, Li Qiang to hold talks as Bangladesh, China prepare to sign MoUs

The Great Hall of the People is decked out with national flags to welcome the Bangladeshi leader with a red-carpet reception

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to hold bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, with several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) expected to be signed between the two countries following the meeting.

The agreements are due to be signed in the presence of the two leaders after their talks at the Great Hall of the People, China’s primary state venue reserved for high-profile political functions and meetings with foreign dignitaries.

The meeting is scheduled for 5pm local time on Thursday, Tarique's Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman confirmed.

Li will receive Tarique with a red carpet welcome at 4:45pm before the two leaders sit down for talks.

The Great Hall and surrounding roads have been decked out in Bangladeshi and Chinese national flags ahead of the visit.

The prime minister is backed by a high-profile entourage including Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, State Minister for Energy and Power Aninda Islam Amit, Foreign Advisor Humayun Kabir, Finance and Planning Advisor Rashed Hasan Al Mahmud Titumir, Education Advisor Mahadi Amin, and Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, along with senior officials.

Immediately after the official proceedings, Premier Li will host a state banquet at the Great Hall in honour of his Bangladeshi counterpart.