China and Bangladesh are marking 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.
Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus is making his first bilateral visit to China after taking charge of his country’s government last August.
His Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi told CNA on Wednesday that Yunus will attend a series of meetings, as well as give a keynote address at the Boao Forum for Asia 2025, which began on Tuesday and runs until Friday in the southern island province of Hainan.
“There is a summit planned (with Chinese) President Xi (Jinping), leaders from the business sector, multiple actual and potential investors in Bangladesh,” said Siddiqi on the sidelines of a World Economic Forum symposium held in Hong Kong.
“From an economic diplomacy point of view, it’s a very exciting effect.”
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Pakistan’s desire to reset ties with Bangladesh comes as its own economy is struggling, with experts saying both countries are viable markets for each other.
Some in India said there might be a silver lining for New Delhi too in the long run.
“If relations became really good, India could actually gain – there could be transit trade between Pakistan and Bangladesh or even shipping,” said Sanjay Kathuria, visiting senior fellow at New Delhi-based public policy think tank Centre for Social and Economic Progress.
“It creates wealth. It engenders more trade. You can create more value chains between the three countries,” he added.
Observers said the next few years will be critical as Bangladesh and Pakistan seek to solidify their new partnership – with trade, diplomacy, and security cooperation all poised to shape the future of the region.
