Diplomatic sources have confirmed that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a visit to Beijing in the first week of July, following her scheduled visit to Delhi. This marks her first visit to China in five years.
The upcoming visit, expected to span three days, underscores the strengthening ties between Dhaka and Beijing. Sources indicate that Prime Minister Hasina's visit to Delhi will precede her trip to Beijing, likely occurring in June after the Indian Lok Sabha elections.
China had previously extended invitations to host Prime Minister Hasina, including during the opening ceremony of the Asian Games last year. However, her attendance was precluded due to prior commitments, such as the session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Since the formation of the Awami League government, efforts have been made to facilitate Prime Minister Hasina's visit to China, with an invitation extended even during Ramadan, though it was declined due to travel restrictions during the holy month.
The invitation for the upcoming visit was extended by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen during a courtesy call on Prime Minister Hasina in April. The invitation was graciously accepted by the Prime Minister, highlighting the continuation of bilateral engagements between the two nations.
Prime Minister Hasina's last visit to China occurred in July 2019, during which she participated in the World Economic Forum conference and held bilateral discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The forthcoming visit is anticipated to further strengthen the strategic partnership and collaboration between Bangladesh and China.
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