Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, is visiting China for the first time as chief adviser. His visit aims to enhance economic cooperation and attract investments, particularly in healthcare. This trip signals a diplomatic shift towards China amidst cooling relations with India.

Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, is embarking on his inaugural state visit to China, which includes a meeting with President Xi Jinping. The visit commences with Yunus addressing the Boao Forum for Asia, an annual conference in Hainan, focusing on Asia’s evolving role. This meeting marks Yunus’s first bilateral engagement since becoming chief adviser in August 2024.

The primary aim of Yunus’s visit is to enhance economic cooperation between Bangladesh and China. According to his deputy press secretary, Azad Majumder, several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) covering economic cooperation are anticipated to be signed. A key topic of discussion will include attracting increased Chinese investments within Bangladesh’s dedicated Chinese Economic Zone.

Experts note the significance of Yunus’s choice of China for his first state visit amid deteriorating relations with India, a former ally under the previous government. With India’s hesitance to respond to Bangladesh’s political turmoil, this presents an opportunity for China to expand its influence.

Yunus’s visit is poised to strengthen Bangladesh-China relations and explore new cooperation avenues. Additionally, Yunus will advocate for Chinese investments in healthcare, including the establishment of a major hospital in Bangladesh to curb medical tourism, which has seen many citizens seeking treatment in India as visa issues complicate travel.

Furthermore, there are reports regarding a potential Chinese grant of $138 million intended for building medical facilities in Bangladesh. Former Bangladeshi ambassador Humayun Kabir emphasized that the opportunity for investment is ripe, especially since India is facing challenges in issuing visas for Bangladeshi patients. Bangladesh’s government is keen to establish a favorable climate for Chinese investment, especially seeking budgetary support amid current financial needs.

Muhammad Yunus’s first state visit to China marks a pivotal moment for Bangladesh, focusing on enhancing economic cooperation and securing investments in critical sectors like healthcare. Amid strained relations with India, this visit presents an opportunity to strengthen ties with China, potentially benefiting both nations economically. The proposed health initiatives and investment opportunities indicate a strategic shift in foreign relations for Bangladesh’s interim government.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com

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