Dhaka, Apr 21 (V7N)- The Chief Advisor to the Interim Government, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, held a high-level meeting with the Governor of Yunnan Province, China, Wang Yubo, at the State Guest House, Jamuna, on Monday. The meeting focused on strengthening the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China, with discussions on expanding cooperation in key areas such as trade, healthcare, education, and cultural exchanges.

Dr. Yunus expressed his commitment to deepen the ties between the two countries, emphasizing the shared goals and potential for mutual growth. He stated, “This is just the beginning. We are so close, yet so far. Let us bridge this gap. I hope you will come to our country again – we want to be not only good neighbors, but even closer neighbors.”

Reflecting on his recent visit to China, Dr. Yunus described it as a turning point in the Bangladesh-China relationship and expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Governor Wang Yubo responded warmly, highlighting the aim of his visit to further strengthen bilateral relations. He emphasized that Yunnan Province is ready to serve as China’s open hub for South Asia. During the meeting, both sides discussed several initiatives aimed at fostering closer ties, including youth exchanges, vocational training, healthcare cooperation, education, and expanding trade between the two nations.

A key highlight of the meeting was the mention of microfinance – a system introduced by Professor Yunus, which has been adopted by a Chinese bank in Yunnan Province, benefiting many Chinese citizens. Governor Wang further proposed increasing trade in sectors such as vocational training, digital education, language programs, and the export of seafood, mangoes, and agricultural products.

Dr. Yunus welcomed the proposals, affirming, “We agree on everything you said – health, education, trade, and training. We want to implement these faster than before. We want to be close partners and true friends.”

A special focus was placed on the health sector, with both parties discussing medical tourism and cooperation in launching medical facilities in China for Bangladeshi patients. The Chief Advisor expressed satisfaction with the cooperation, which he described as a new beginning for Bangladesh-China health collaboration.

The two sides also emphasized the importance of expanding educational exchanges. Currently, around 400 Bangladeshi students are studying in China, and Dr. Yunus committed to increasing this number while encouraging Chinese language learning among Bangladeshis.

Marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-China diplomatic relations, Dr. Yunus expressed Bangladesh’s eagerness to work closely with China to tackle common challenges and open new development prospects for both nations.

The meeting marked a significant step in enhancing Bangladesh-China relations and setting the stage for stronger bilateral cooperation in the years to come.

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