PM to visit China ‘at some point’, Teesta project discussions progressing: Foreign adviser

Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir has said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will visit China "at some point," although the timing and itinerary of the visit have not yet been finalised.

"Once finalised, we will let you know. At some point, the PM will visit China, which remains an important development partner for Bangladesh," he told reporters at the foreign affairs ministry on Monday (11 May).

The remarks come amid speculation that the prime minister may visit to China first, possibly linked to developments surrounding the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project.

The adviser said Bangladesh has had "very good and positive" discussions with China on the project, adding that China's Exim Bank will finance its implementation.

When asked about the start of work on the Teesta project, he said the study report is currently under review and recommendations are being examined.

He added that further detailed discussions and consultations are required before implementation can proceed.

Earlier, at the invitation of Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Foreign Minister of China, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman visited China from 5 to 7 May, during which both sides held talks in Beijing. Humayun Kabir accompanied the foreign minister on the visit.

During the talks, both sides agreed to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and strengthen collaboration in areas including trade, investment, industry, the digital economy, water resources, health, and people-to-people connectivity.

The adviser also noted that Bangladesh-China relations are historic, adding that the relationship was initiated by former president Ziaur Rahman.