President seeks China’s cooperation for investment, Rohingya repatriation

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for increased Chinese cooperation to boost investment in Bangladesh and create conditions for the safe, dignified and sustainable repatriation of Rohingyas.
He made the call when outgoing Chinese Ambassador Mr. Yao Wen paid a farewell call on him at Bangabhaban on Wednesday, according to the President’s Press Wing.
Appreciating China’s constructive role in the Rohingya crisis, the president said Chinese initiatives would help resolve the crisis and ensure sustainable repatriation. He also called for increased cooperation and investment in sectors including readymade garments, electric vehicles, light engineering, high-tech electronics, semiconductors and solar energy.
Welcoming regional connectivity initiatives, including the Kunming-Chattogram corridor and the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor, Mr. Fakhrul said Bangladesh was ready to work with China and relevant partners in their mutual interests.
He also described the modernisation and expansion of Mongla Port and the establishment of the China Economic and Industrial Zone as important initiatives for connectivity, industrialisation and economic development.
The president urged China to continue its technical and financial assistance for the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project and called for further discussions to advance its implementation.
Appreciating Mr. Yao Wen’s contribution to strengthening Bangladesh-China relations, the president said the visits to China by President Ziaur Rahman in 1977 and 1980, and his own visit in April 2026 accompanied by senior and young Bangladeshi leaders and students, had further deepened and strengthened bilateral ties.
Describing China as a trusted friend and strategic partner, he said Bangladesh-China relations would become stronger and more consolidated in the coming days. He also expressed gratitude to China for constructing and financing the 1,000-bed Bangladesh-China Friendship General Hospital.
The president also sought Chinese expertise and technical assistance for treating complex blood cancers at the Combined Military Hospital, which has opened the treatment facility to the public. The ambassador assured him of cooperation in this regard.
Wishing Mr. Yao Wen a bright future and success, the president said Bangladesh would gratefully remember his contribution to the development of Bangladesh-China relations.
The president’s military secretary, secretary, press secretary and an additional secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present at the meeting. Deputy Chief of Mission Dr. Li Yuyin accompanied the Chinese ambassador.