Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has reiterated his country’s commitment towards implementing the Teesta masterplan and ensure swift repatriation of Rohingya refugees along with expanding the Chinese market for Bangladeshi goods.

The ambassador has also hoped that bullet trains, a high-speed rail technology, will operate on major Bangladeshi rail routes in the coming days.  

The ambassador made the remarks while speaking as a special guest at a seminar titled "Long Live Bangladesh-China Friendship" organised by the Bangladesh-China Friendship Association at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in the capital on Saturday.

Yao said China is moving forward with plans for the Bangladesh-China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (BCMEC), adding that the proposed high-speed rail project could significantly improve regional connectivity.

He described Bangladesh-China relations as being at one of their strongest points in history, saying recent high-level exchanges have further strengthened the two countries' strategic partnership.

During the event, the ambassador said China is willing to provide long-term support to Bangladesh in sectors like development, trade, communication and regional stability.

The ambassador also reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting the implementation of the Teesta River Comprehensive Management Project, noting that feasibility studies are progressing and Beijing is prepared to provide the necessary technical and financial assistance.

On trade, Yao said a protocol signed during the Bangladeshi prime minister's recent visit to China will allow fresh Bangladeshi jackfruit to enter the Chinese market, following the opening of the market for Bangladeshi mangoes, which will open a new door for Bangladesh’s agro economy.

Addressing the Rohingya crisis, the ambassador said China would continue to play a mediating role between Bangladesh and Myanmar to facilitate dialogue and seek a sustainable solution in light of the changing political situation in Myanmar. Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended  the seminar as the chief guest.

SM/CitizenTimes