China has agreed to extend Bangladesh’s loan repayment period, marking a significant development in the bilateral ties. The new terms apply to both the Preferential Buyer’s Credit (PBC) and the Government Concessional Loan (GCL). Bangladesh had requested a 10-year extension to ease the financial burden, and China has agreed in principle to this request. This extension will provide Bangladesh with more flexibility to manage its loan obligations over a longer period, contributing to a smoother economic recovery and growth.
During the talks, Bangladesh also requested that China reduce the interest rates on its loans from 2-3% to 1%. Foreign Minister Wang Yi responded positively, noting that China would review this request. With this potential reduction, Bangladesh hopes to lower the financial cost of its loans, which would support the country’s ongoing development efforts. China’s willingness to explore the possibility of a rate reduction reflects a growing understanding of Bangladesh’s economic challenges.
As part of the bilateral agreements, China has agreed to designate 3-4 top-tier hospitals in Kunming for the treatment of Bangladeshi patients. This initiative aims to improve access to specialized medical care for Bangladeshis in need of advanced treatment. Additionally, China has expressed openness to Bangladesh’s proposal for establishing a tertiary-level Chinese hospital in Dhaka. This gesture will help further deepen ties between the two countries and improve health outcomes for Bangladeshis.
The recent talks between Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reflect the growing and robust relationship between the two nations. Both sides reiterated their commitment to a “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” with an emphasis on collaboration in trade, investment, and infrastructure development. The discussions also covered people-to-people exchanges, strengthening the cultural and diplomatic bonds between the countries.
China expressed continued support for Bangladesh’s development through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which is expected to drive key infrastructure projects in the country. Bangladesh responded positively to China’s invitation to consider participation in President Xi Jinping’s global initiatives, such as the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These initiatives align with Bangladesh’s long-term development goals and its quest for greater international cooperation.
Both countries discussed the ongoing Rohingya crisis, with China reaffirming its commitment to facilitating a regional solution. Bangladesh stressed the importance of working toward a durable resolution to the crisis, and both sides agreed to continue efforts to promote regional stability. China pledged to maintain its engagement with Myanmar to ensure that the issue is addressed, aligning with Bangladesh’s priorities in safeguarding regional peace.
The bilateral talks concluded with Foreign Adviser Hossain inviting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time. Both countries expressed a desire to deepen their cooperation across a range of sectors, including trade, infrastructure, healthcare, and people-to-people exchanges. The strengthening of ties between Bangladesh and China marks a milestone in the 50-year diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha
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