Red carpets roll out as Yunus reaches Beijing, talks with Xi Friday

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus arrived in Beijing on Thursday night, set to hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. 

The discussions are expected to chart a new course for Bangladesh-China relations, elevating the partnership to unprecedented heights while safeguarding mutual and strategic interests.  

Dr Yunus was warmly welcomed at Beijing International Airport by China’s Vice Minister Sun Weidong at approximately 10:20 pm (China time). 

Children greeted him with flowers as he disembarked following a four-hour flight from Qionghai Bo'ao International Airport. Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder said.  

The meeting at the Great Hall of the People will begin with a static guard of honour, followed by a joint photo session. Discussions between Dr Yunus and President Xi will focus on strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors, including trade and investment, agriculture, infrastructure development, renewable energy, and resolving the Rohingya crisis. 

Broader issues of mutual interest will also be addressed, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin confirmed.  

Bangladesh and China are poised to sign several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the visit. 

These documents are expected to cover areas such as human resource development, economic and technical assistance, cultural and sports cooperation, and media collaboration. Additionally, announcements related to economic zones, investments, and other initiatives are anticipated.  

The Foreign Secretary emphasised that China remains Bangladesh’s closest neighbour, best friend, and one of its largest commercial and development partners. This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, and both sides have undertaken programs to celebrate this milestone.  

On Friday, Dr Yunus will participate in an "Investment Dialogue" with prominent Chinese business leaders. Organised to showcase Bangladesh’s business-friendly environment, the event aims to attract increased Chinese investment into key sectors of the Bangladeshi economy.  

Later, the Chief Adviser will join three roundtable discussions on diverse themes:  

1. Sustainable Infrastructure and Energy Investment 

2. Bangladesh 2.0: Manufacturing and Market Opportunities 

3. Social Business, Youth Entrepreneurship, and the World of Three Zeros 

These sessions will bring together CEOs of major companies, experts from the social business community, high-ranking officials of renowned Chinese firms, business representatives, and youth delegations from both countries.  

On Saturday morning, Dr Yunus will visit Peking University, where he will be conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree. Following the ceremony, he will deliver a speech to an audience comprising academics, students, and dignitaries.  

In the afternoon, the Chief Adviser will engage in an exclusive interview with China Media Group (CMG) and likely Xinhua, discussing the multifaceted relationship between Bangladesh and China, as well as Bangladesh's stance on contemporary global issues.  

During his address to the nation on Tuesday evening, Dr Yunus highlighted potential collaborations. He revealed that Longji, the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, has expressed interest in setting up a factory in Bangladesh. “We are working with them,” he said, adding that discussions on technical assistance, medical aid, and low-cost treatment are underway.  

Additionally, China has shown interest in importing mangoes, jackfruit, and guava from Bangladesh. “This will start very soon,” Dr Yunus assured.  

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen described the visit as “very successful, productive, and a milestone.” Analysts agree that the outcomes of this trip could significantly enhance Dhaka-Beijing relations, fostering deeper economic integration and strategic cooperation.  

As Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of diplomatic ties with China, Dr Yunus’ visit underscores the commitment to building a future-oriented partnership. With new agreements, expanded trade opportunities, and strengthened people-to-people exchanges, the visit promises to leave a lasting imprint on Bangladesh-China relations.