China will provide duty-free and quota-free market access for Bangladeshi products until 2028. This will remain effective for two years after Bangladesh is included in the list of developing countries, according to Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang.
He made these remarks during a meeting with Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, who is currently visiting China, on Thursday (March 27th). Their meeting took place on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, known as the Asian Davos.
Expressing interest in discussions regarding a free trade agreement between China and Bangladesh, Ding Xuexiang stated that his country will fully support Bangladesh's interim government. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, both sides agreed to increase investment, trade, cultural ties, and people-to-people exchange.
China hopes that Bangladesh will become even more prosperous under the leadership of Professor Yunus, the Vice Premier said, adding that President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to your (Dr. Muhammad Yunus's) visit.
During the meeting, the Chief Advisor reiterated Bangladesh's firm commitment to the 'One-China Policy', stating that Bangladesh is proud to be the first country in South Asia to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The Chinese Vice Premier announced that China will finance the modernization of Mongla port and the Dasherkandi sewage treatment plant. He also mentioned that China signed a protocol last year to import mangoes from Bangladesh, and mango exports to China will begin this summer, which will help in bringing trade balance between the two countries. Furthermore, China will cooperate to encourage dialogue between Bangladesh and Myanmar to resolve the Rohingya crisis.
Expressing gratitude to China, the Chief Advisor said that today's meeting is another milestone in deepening the Bangladesh-China partnership. "Let us work together to usher in a new era of friendship, cooperation, and partnership, and further strengthen our strategic relationship," he added.
Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain, Energy, Railway, and Road Transport Advisor Fawzul Kabir Khan, Chief Advisor's High Representative Dr. Khalilur Rahman, and BIDA Executive Chairman Ashiq Chowdhury were present at the meeting.
