Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, will visit China later this month to meet with President Xi Jinping, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations. This visit comes as Bangladesh seeks financial support to overcome economic struggles and aims to strengthen its position as a manufacturing hub. Yunus will also address the Boao Forum for Asia, emphasizing the evolving role of Asia.

Concerns have arisen for India as the financially troubled Bangladesh strengthens its relationship with China. Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government, is scheduled to visit China later this month, where he is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This visit follows Prime Minister Yunus’s intention to travel to China from March 26 to March 29, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation.

Shafiqul Alam, Yunus’s press secretary, confirmed that the primary goal of the visit is to address various bilateral issues. Since taking office in August of the previous year, Yunus has actively pursued a closer friendship with China, highlighted by recent discussions with the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen.

During his visit, Yunus will participate in the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) conference on March 27, focusing on Asia’s evolving global role. The BFA, which includes 25 Asian countries and Australia, provides a platform for dialogue on significant regional and global issues. Yunus is also expected to confer with President Xi Jinping on March 28, where major announcements regarding cooperation are anticipated.

As Bangladesh grapples with economic challenges, it aims to transform into a manufacturing hub with China’s assistance. High expectations surround Yunus’s visit, anticipating major Chinese investments, particularly from the solar panel manufacturer LONGi, which is poised to unveil manufacturing investments in Bangladesh.

Given the deterioration of relations with India following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, Yunus’ engagement with China is critical for Bangladesh. For the latter, it is essential to foster robust ties with a significant regional power such as China, especially as China seeks to expand its influence in Dhaka.

In summary, Muhammad Yunus’s upcoming visit to China underscores Bangladesh’s strategic pivot towards strengthening ties with Beijing amid economic challenges and strained relations with India. The anticipated discussions and potential investments, especially in manufacturing, signify Bangladesh’s determination to secure critical support from China, which is crucial for its economic recovery and growth.

Original Source: www.india.com

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