Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain will travel to China from January 20 to 24 in order to discuss the Rohingya issue, address trade imbalances, and draw Chinese investment to Bangladesh.

“This year marks the golden jubilee of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, making the adviser’s visit particularly significant,” said ministry spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam during a media briefing.
A key highlight of the visit will be a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on January 21. The adviser is also expected to meet senior officials of the Communist Party of China and visit Shanghai as part of his engagements.

Focus Areas of the Visit
Alam emphasized that agriculture, education, trade, and the Rohingya issue will feature prominently in the discussions. Economic cooperation will be a cornerstone of the talks, as trade between Bangladesh and China currently stands at USD 25 billion, heavily skewed in China’s favor.
“The adviser aims to address trade imbalances and explore avenues to attract increased Chinese investments in Bangladesh,” Alam said, noting that the visit will help shape the future trajectory of bilateral relations.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
Bangladesh and China share a “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership,” reflecting the deep and multifaceted nature of their relationship. The adviser’s visit will be the first high-level bilateral trip since the formation of Bangladesh’s interim government in August 2024, presenting a valuable opportunity to deepen ties.
“This visit will mark the formal commencement of celebrations for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations in 2025,” Alam added. The trip aims to outline a roadmap for enhancing economic cooperation, expanding trade and investment, and reviewing progress in ongoing collaborations.

Humanitarian Cooperation and Future Plans
The spokesperson highlighted China’s humanitarian support following Bangladesh’s anti-discrimination movement in July 2024, during which a high-level Chinese medical delegation provided assistance and pledged to establish a specialized hospital and rehabilitation center. This matter is expected to feature in the discussions during the visit.

Engagement in Shanghai
In Shanghai, the adviser will deliver speeches at the China Institute of International Studies and the Shanghai Institute of International Studies. Additionally, he will meet business representatives to encourage increased Chinese investment in Bangladesh.

Celebrating a Milestone
As Bangladesh and China prepare to celebrate the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations in 2025, this visit will serve as a precursor to the milestone, setting the stage for stronger collaboration and mutual growth.
“The adviser’s engagements will reflect the shared vision of fostering deeper ties, addressing pressing issues, and unlocking new opportunities for both nations,” Alam concluded.

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