Bangladesh’s newly elected Prime Minister has chosen China for her second official foreign visit since forming the new government, according to the Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament. Speaking at the 7th China-South Asia Cooperation Forum in Kunming, Yunnan Province, he said the visit would open a new chapter in bilateral relations and strengthen the countries’ comprehensive strategic partnership.

The Deputy Speaker highlighted the historical foundation of Bangladesh-China diplomatic ties, crediting late President Ziaur Rahman for initiating relations through visits in 1977 and 1980. He also recalled former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s visits in 1991 and 2002, which further deepened friendship between the two nations. Emphasizing regional cooperation, he called for revitalizing SAARC as an effective platform for peace and development and suggested that China, as an observer, could play a constructive role.

During the forum, Bangladesh’s parliamentary delegation met Chinese leaders to discuss cooperation in agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, and industry. Chinese officials reaffirmed their commitment to working with Bangladesh’s democratic government and expressed interest in visiting Bangladesh soon.