Foreign Minister Defends PM’s China Diplomacy
Bangladesh China relations
Foreign Minister of Bangladesh Khalilur Rahman vehemently denied rumors about Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s recent trip to China.
In an interview, a reporter enquired if the Prime Minister went to China to receive any loan or financial aid.
But the foreign minister criticized the question.
According to him, such a question amounted to an insult to the government and the people of Bangladesh.
“Please do not ask such questions,” he told the reporter.
“It is shameful for our country.”
“No Prime Minister goes abroad with a begging bowl.”
“Our Prime Minister went to China not to beg,” he said.
On the contrary, the objective of the trip was to foster bilateral ties.
Additionally, both sides discussed new areas of cooperation.
The foreign minister made it clear that financial assistance was not the main objective of this trip.
Rather, the discussion revolved around trade, investments, infrastructure, and the Teesta River project.
Both sides also addressed issues relating to artificial intelligence, green technology, and industry cooperation.
Moreover, Bangladesh and China entered into several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs).
The visit is considered by analysts as an important foreign policy decision taken by the new government of Bangladesh.
The talks centered around narrowing down the trade deficit between the two countries.
In addition, both wanted to increase their exports and investments.
Both countries also looked for ways to hasten development work.
However, the statement made by the minister has caused political and diplomatic controversy in Bangladesh.
While the government said that Bangladesh welcomes international cooperation,
it is based on equality and mutual respect only.
There can be no talk of dependence and begging on anyone’s part.
Bangladesh China relations
