Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced a new phase in bilateral relations during Rahman’s official visit to Beijing on June 26-28, aimed at building a China-Bangladesh community with a shared future in the new era. The visit marked Rahman’s first overseas trip since assuming office in February.
During the meeting, Xi emphasized China’s longstanding commitment to friendly and cooperative ties with Bangladesh. He pledged Beijing’s continued support for Bangladesh’s national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rejecting any external interference. Xi called for enhanced exchanges on governance, deeper strategic communication, and stronger political trust between the two countries. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation in multilateral forums such as the United Nations to promote a fair and inclusive global order.
Xi outlined priorities for bilateral collaboration, including advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, aligning development strategies, and expanding partnerships in green and low-carbon development, digital economy, information technology, and artificial intelligence. He also advocated for increased exchanges in healthcare, culture, education, and subnational cooperation. Regional connectivity was also a focus, with Xi stressing the need to push forward the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor.
Prime Minister Rahman described China as Bangladesh’s "most valued and trusted partner" and praised China’s historic transformation under Xi’s leadership. He reaffirmed Bangladesh’s adherence to the one-China principle and its opposition to any form of Taiwanese independence. Rahman expressed support for Xi’s vision of a community with a shared future for humanity and for the four global initiatives proposed by China, emphasizing their significance for global peace, development, fairness, and justice.
The visit coincided with preparations to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, with analysts noting that the trip is poised to deepen political mutual trust, practical cooperation, and international collaboration between the two nations. Observers highlighted Bangladesh’s ongoing economic priorities, including the importance of Chinese investment and infrastructure development.
Zhao Leji, chairman of China’s National People’s Congress, also met with Rahman during the visit, signaling high-level legislative engagement. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen commented that Rahman’s early visit in office reflects Bangladesh’s strong regard for its relationship with China and prioritization of bilateral ties.
Overall, the meetings underscored a mutual commitment to strengthening strategic partnership and collaboration across diverse sectors amid evolving global challenges.