Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to present a proposal of $1 billion for seven projects focusing on electricity and fuel during her upcoming trip to China.

These projects include a dedicated LNG supply pipeline in Maheshkhali and six additional projects under the electricity department, primarily concerning operational infrastructure.

Nasrul Hamid, state minister for power, energy and mineral resources revealed these details on Thursday during a press conference at the secretariat.

On the same day, Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen told DCAB talk, the flagship event of Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Bangladesh (DCAB) that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming trip to Beijing “marks a significant step forward in bilateral relations.”

Regarding Bangladesh's Teesta River project, the ambassador affirmed China's respect for Bangladesh's autonomy in decision-making, stating that China is ready to support Bangladesh's chosen course of action.

He also emphasized that China welcomes Bangladesh's decision on any potential involvement from India.

Ambassador Yao Wen acknowledged Bangladesh's request for assistance in managing its reserve crisis and hinted at the possibility of progress during the Prime Minister's visit, but refrained from providing further details.

On the Rohingya issue, the diplomat stressed the urgency of repatriation and emphasized the need for regional and Asian powers to contribute to a safe return for the Rohingya, with demilitarization of Rakhine as a crucial first step.

China’s foreign ministry briefed journalists in Beijing

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming visit to China, scheduled for July 8-10, has been confirmed by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. During this visit, she will meet with both President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, and agreements for mutual assistance will be signed.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning, while briefing about PM Hasina’s visit in Beijing, expressed China's strong interest in deepening collaboration with Bangladesh.

Mao Ning stated that during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit, leaders of both countries will discuss deepening their long-standing friendship, expanding mutually beneficial cooperation, and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

PM Hasina will also participate in a high-level conference on trade, business, and investment between the two nations.

Mao Ning highlighted the close ties between China and Bangladesh, emphasizing their shared development vision and strategies. He noted that over the past 49 years, both countries have supported each other's core interests and worked together to advance modernization, setting a positive example of cooperation between developing nations.

Recent years have seen a deepening of strategic partnership and fruitful cooperation in various fields, thanks to the commitment of both countries' leaders, he said.

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