Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) Central Committee, assured Bangladesh of China’s support for its bid to join BRICS and the extension of Duty Free Quota Free (DFQF) facilities beyond 2026. During his meeting with Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud on Monday, Liu reiterated China’s commitment to backing Bangladesh’s aspirations on the global stage and addressing the Rohingya crisis.

Dr. Hasan Mahmud expressed satisfaction with the growing party-level engagements between the Bangladesh Awami League and the Communist Party of China. He thanked the Chinese government for providing DFQF market access to 98 percent of Bangladeshi products and requested the extension of this facility beyond 2026, coinciding with Bangladesh’s graduation from LDC status.

The Foreign Minister emphasized boosting exports to China, particularly in pharmaceuticals, ceramics, leather, and agricultural products, to reduce the trade imbalance. He also called for the expedited completion of the Chinese EPZ in Anwara, Chattogram, and expressed interest in constructing a second tunnel under the Karnaphuli River, following the success of the first tunnel built with Chinese assistance.

Reflecting on the recent meeting between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, Dr. Mahmud sought China’s continued support for Bangladesh’s inclusion in BRICS. He appreciated China’s ongoing assistance in seeking a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis through repatriation.

Minister Liu, on his first visit to Bangladesh, praised the country’s dynamism and development prospects, expressing satisfaction with the progress of the Padma Bridge rail link project. He emphasized China’s commitment to being a reliable development partner for Bangladesh.

Both ministers expressed optimism for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s upcoming visit to China, hoping it will further strengthen bilateral relations and mutual interests.