“We’ll welcome Chinese investment in the country, especially in textiles, agro-processing, energy and power, pharmaceuticals, communications and infrastructure development. This will reduce the trade gap between the two countries,” she said when Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Li Jun called on her at her office (PMO).
Briefing the reporters after the meeting, PM’s press secretary Abul Kalam Azad said the Prime Minister and the Chinese Ambassador discussed various issues of bilateral interest including construction of deep seaport and a number of bridges in Bangladesh with the Chinese assistance.
The envoy informed the Prime Minister that the Chinese entrepreneurs are very keen to invest in Bangladesh’s exclusive economic zones.
In this connection, Hasina welcomed the Chinese investors’ eagerness and assured that her government would extend the necessary support.
The Prime Minister requested easing visa formalities for Bangladeshi businessmen who intend to visit China and Hong Kong.
The Chinese Ambassador on behalf of the Chinese President invited the Prime Minister to attend the 1st China-South Asia Expo to be held in Kunming next June.
Sheikh Hasina accepted the invitation and said she would consider attending the Expo if her schedule permits.
She said Bangladesh is very happy to see that the new leadership of China is making necessary effort to reach out to the region and sought Chinese support for Bangladesh’s initiatives in establishing greater connectivity in the region.
The Prime Minister appreciated the construction of a number of bridges in Bangladesh with Chinese assistance and requested the Chinese government to provide further support to implement the Vision 2021 programme of her government.
Ambassador at-Large M Ziauddin, Principal Secretary Shaikh Md Wahid Uz Zaman, PMO Secretary Mollah Waheeduzzman and Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad were, among others, present on the occasion.
