Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen expressed his firm conviction that the trajectory of Bangladesh-China relations will grow increasingly bright while expanding the scope of friendly bilateral cooperation.

Speaking at a reception celebrating the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on Wednesday evening, he stated, "The China-Bangladesh friendship serves the fundamental interests of both countries and both peoples and conforms to the trend of the times; no storm can hold back the forward march of our relations."

Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan graced the occasion as chief guest alongside prominent political leaders from the ruling and opposition spectrums, cabinet ministers, high-ranking government officials, Dhaka-based diplomats, business executives, civil society delegates, and senior journalists.

Reflecting on his tenure ahead of his planned departure from Dhaka early next month, Ambassador Yao remarked, "Looking back fills me with deep emotion. I have served in Bangladesh for three years and nine months, and I will bid farewell to this post in a few days."

Expressing his affection for the host country, he added, "As I prepare to leave, my heart is filled with profound attachment and reluctance to part. Over the past three years, I have personally witnessed Bangladesh’s political transformation and the historic choices this nation has made at a critical juncture."

The outgoing envoy praised the nation's resolve, noting his deep admiration for the extraordinary resilience and national dignity displayed by citizens, and pointed out that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the people have embarked on a fresh trajectory of reform and progress.

Emphasizing the vital contribution of the youth, the envoy observed, "Over the past three years, I have walked through the streets and alleys of Dhaka, and what impressed me most is the optimism and drive of Bangladesh’s young people."

He highlighted youth as a nation's most invaluable asset and future foundation, affirming, "I am fully confident in a bright tomorrow of Bangladesh."

Describing his firsthand experience of the country's rapid development, he shared, "Wherever I went, the warm greetings and sincere smiles made me feel the heartfelt friendship of the Bangladeshi people toward the Chinese people. Over the past three years, I have also made many Bangladeshi friends; those evenings of heartfelt conversations and days of walking side by side - this friendship I will treasure forever."

Concluding his address, he declared, "May the China-Bangladesh friendship remain evergreen forever! May both our countries enjoy prosperity and our peoples happiness and well-being!"

The diplomatic gathering also marked the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, which Ambassador Yao noted has expanded into the world's largest governing party possessing major global influence.

Additionally, the event commemorated the 51st anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China, alongside the 10th anniversary of China-Bangladesh Belt and Road cooperation.

Reaffirming Beijing's diplomatic backing, Ambassador Yao stated, "China supports the new Bangladeshi government in exercising governance, supports Bangladesh in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, opposes external interference, and supports Bangladesh in playing a greater role in regional and international affairs."

He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's initial official visit to China this year successfully elevated bilateral ties to a China-Bangladesh community with a shared future in the new era, providing strong momentum for long-term development and elevating relations to their historical peak.

With Inputs from UNB