Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Friday, with the two countries reaffirming their commitment to expanding bilateral ties across trade, investment, infrastructure, and strategic cooperation.
The meeting at the Great Hall of the People marked the highlight of Rahman's first official visit to China since taking office and his first overseas visit as prime minister.
According to Bangladesh Prime Minister's Office spokesperson Mahdi Amin, Rahman discussed issues related to Bangladesh's national interests and ways to deepen cooperation with China.
Bangladesh and China also signed 13 memoranda of understanding following talks between Rahman and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The agreements cover cooperation in multiple sectors under China's Global Development Initiative.
Bangladesh is seeking Chinese support for several infrastructure projects, including the proposed Teesta River project. The two sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in the management of Bangladesh's river systems, including the Teesta.
Bangladesh has also decided to move forward with plans to acquire 24 Chinese J-10CE multirole fighter jets. If completed, Bangladesh will become only the second foreign operator of the export version of the J-10C fighter after Pakistan.
During the visit, Rahman paid tribute at the Monument to the People's Heroes in Tiananmen Square before attending an official banquet hosted by Premier Li.
Following the meeting, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said President Xi reaffirmed China's commitment to strengthening ties with Bangladesh.
"China has all along attached great importance to the development of China-Bangladesh relations," Mao said, adding that China would remain "a trustworthy good friend, good neighbour, and good partner of Bangladesh."
She also said China supports Bangladesh in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity and opposes foreign interference.
Rahman's China visit follows an earlier trip to Malaysia and concludes his first official overseas tour since assuming office.