Bangladesh and China expand cooperation in infrastructure and energy

Bangladesh and China are seeking to expand bilateral cooperation across several key sectors, including infrastructure, waste management, renewable energy, and education. During a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, Bangladesh’s Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Minister Abdul Moyeen Khan emphasized the importance of Chinese expertise and investment in modernizing urban development and water supply systems.

A significant proposal has been made to China for a Tk10,000-crore investment to develop modern housing for slum areas in Dhaka’s Karail, Gulshan, and Mohakhali neighborhoods. China has reportedly shown initial positive interest in this phased implementation. Other technical discussions included the expansion of the Dasherkandi Sewerage Treatment Plant pipeline and the potential for generating electricity from waste.

In the realm of education, Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin highlighted the role of academic exchanges in strengthening people-to-people ties. Discussions at the China-Bangladesh Education Exchange Conference in Guangzhou focused on increasing study opportunities for Bangladeshi students in China, joint research initiatives, and the potential inclusion of Mandarin in the national education curriculum.