China has expressed keen interest to set up agricultural machinery manufacturing factories in Bangladesh, agro-industrial parks for agro-processing, and agricultural technology cooperation center for training of scientists and joint research.
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen made the proposal at a meeting with Agriculture Minister MdAbdurRazzaque at the Secretariat on Thursday morning.
Welcoming the China's offer, the agriculture minister said the Bangladesh government will provide all kinds of assistance.
The minister also requested the Ambassador to provide more scholarships in the field of higher education for Bangladeshi scientists.
He said Bangladesh wants to maintain good relations with all countries keeping the national interest first.
“Bangladesh-China relations are very important for economic development and peace and stability in the region. There are many opportunities to boost cooperation in the field of agriculture between Bangladesh and China,” Razzaque said adding, “Cooperation in the agriculture sector will take Sino-Bangladesh bilateral relations to new heights.”
The agriculture minister also asked for China’s support to help repatriate the Rohingya people.
"Bangladesh is a small country with a population of 170 million. In such a situation, it is very difficult to ensure food, shelter, medical, and security for one million Rohingyas. Moreover, Rohingyas are also a threat to the security of the country,” he said.
In response, the Chinese ambassador said, “China is working sincerely to find a permanent solution to the Rohingya problem.”
While talking to reporters regarding the new US Visa policy for Bangladesh ahead of 12th parliamentary election – to be held later this year or earlier next year – the minister said, “The government is not worried and does not feel pressure about the US visa ban warning. This is a warning to everyone. It also applies to BNP.”
The minister also said that the new visa policy will discourage evil forces, unconstitutional forces in the country who want to come to power without elections following Pakistani style .
The minister said the next parliamentary elections will be held through a democratic process, adding that the Election Commission will hold the elections with the help of the government as per the constitution.
