Dhaka, Jan 26 (V7N) — Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain suggested that China could serve as an alternative destination for Bangladeshis seeking medical treatment amid India’s suspension of visa services. He made these remarks during a press conference at the Foreign Ministry on Sunday, following his recent visit to China.

Addressing the media, the advisor noted that medical treatment for Bangladeshi patients in India has been significantly affected due to visa restrictions. As a potential solution, Kunming, China, has been proposed as an alternative destination. Bangladesh has also requested China to simplify its visa process to facilitate medical travel.

Md. Touhid Hossain also commented on the suspension of USAID operations in Bangladesh following an executive order by the US President. Although no official letter has been received, the advisor confirmed that USAID has halted its assistance activities in Bangladesh, as in many other countries.

For over 50 years, USAID has supported Bangladesh in areas such as public health, education, energy, environment, food security, and disaster relief. The agency has also played a key role in providing humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya crisis. However, the advisor noted that funding was suspended for 90 days under Donald Trump's administration, and its operations in Bangladesh are now officially closed.

Regarding his visit to China, the advisor termed it "quite positive." During high-level talks, Bangladesh proposed reducing the interest rate and extending the repayment term for loans taken from China. According to Hossain, China has shown a positive attitude toward these requests.

Bangladesh also discussed sharing water from common rivers with China, clarifying its position on this critical issue. Additionally, China has expressed interest in building a hospital in Bangladesh with its own funding. The government plans to allocate land for this purpose in Purbachal.

The advisor’s visit underscores Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen ties with China amidst evolving global and regional dynamics.

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