Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has characterized his latest tour of China as a "turning point" for bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China. It is, however, towards conversion of the two countries from "good neighbours" to "very close neighbours". In a high-profile meeting with Governor Wang Yubo of China for the Yunnan Province at Dhaka's State Guest House Jamuna, Prof Yunus stated the above.
"Welcoming Governor Yubo as he comes to Bangladesh for the first time, Prof Yunus added," states the open window of south Asia in China, besides the geographical and cultural proximity of the province to Bangladesh. The opening address was by Prof Yunus who expressed appreciation for the warm reception China had extended to him while he met with President Xi Jinping for his commitment forward.
The two leaders spoke broadly about trade, education, health, youth exchange, vocational training, digital education and language education. Special among them was the endorsement of Yunus' microcredit model adopted by a bank in Yunnan for which, already, benefits are being delivered to communities in China.
Healthcare was a major component of the cooperation with four hospitals in Kunming selected for Bangladeshis seeking medical treatment. Education was another major focus with Yunus pledging to boost the current figure of about 400 Bangladeshi students studying in China.
The two reaffirmed mutual commitment to addressing common challenges and creating new opportunities for prosperity in the region as the two countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties. Senior Secretary Lamiya Morshed also attended the meeting, stressing sustainable development goals in the burgeoning partnership.
[Source Credit: Business Recorder]
