China and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties, with Beijing pledging full support to the Bangladesh Interim Government.

The two nations also agreed to enhance investment, trade, and cultural exchanges as they mark 50 years of diplomatic relations.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Chinese Executive Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in China.

Vice-Premier Ding conveyed President Xi Jinping’s strong interest in Bangladesh’s progress and expressed hopes for further development under Prof Yunus’ leadership. In response, the Chief Adviser reiterated Bangladesh’s firm commitment to the One-China policy and highlighted the country’s early participation in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Bangladesh sought Chinese support in development and livelihood projects, requesting a reduction in interest rates on Chinese loans from 3% to 1-2% and a waiver of commitment fees on Chinese-funded projects. Dhaka also urged China to facilitate the relocation of Chinese industries, particularly in ready-made garments, electric vehicles, light machinery, high-tech electronics, and solar panels.

China pledged continued duty-free and quota-free access for Bangladeshi goods until 2028 and expressed interest in launching free trade negotiations. It also promised funding for the modernization of Mongla Port and the Dasherkandi Sewage project.

On trade, China will begin importing mangoes from Bangladesh this summer, with future plans to import jackfruit, guava, and aquatic products to address the trade imbalance. Additionally, China committed to increasing scholarships for Bangladeshi students and funding four ocean-going vessels for the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation.

Beijing also assured support in fostering dialogue between Bangladesh and Myanmar to address the Rohingya crisis.

Prof Yunus welcomed China’s commitments, calling for stronger strategic ties and long-term cooperation between the two nations.