Prime Minister Tarique Rahman arrived in China on Monday night for a four-day visit carrying a broad economic agenda that includes attracting Chinese investment, expanding trade, securing support for major infrastructure projects and deepening Bangladesh's integration into regional economic networks.
The visit, the most significant leg of his first overseas tour since assuming office in February, comes at a time when Bangladesh is seeking fresh foreign investment, new export opportunities and stronger economic partnerships as it prepares for post-LDC graduation.
Officials say Dhaka is expected to push for progress on several long-discussed initiatives, including infrastructure financing, industrial investment, technology transfer, connectivity projects and enhanced market access for Bangladeshi products.
A major focus of the visit will be high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang later this week, where Bangladesh is expected to seek stronger economic cooperation and greater Chinese participation in key development projects.
Foreign ministry officials have already indicated that discussions on the long-awaited Teesta project are expected during the visit, alongside broader conversations on trade, investment and regional connectivity.
Bangladesh is also looking to attract Chinese investment into manufacturing, information technology, renewable energy, semiconductors and industrial zones as part of its effort to diversify the economy and generate employment.
The visit follows Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's stop in Malaysia, where labour migration, trade and Bangladesh's bid to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) dominated discussions.
China remains Bangladesh's largest trading partner and one of its most important development partners, playing a central role in infrastructure, energy and transport projects across the country.
Diplomatic observers say the visit will be closely watched for signals on how the new government intends to balance economic engagement with major global powers while advancing its development priorities.
PM Tarique arrived in the northeastern Chinese port city of Dalian from Kuala Lumpur aboard a special Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight.
He was received at Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport by senior Chinese officials and Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md Nazmul Islam.
During his stay in Dalian, the prime minister will attend the 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions of the World Economic Forum, commonly known as the Summer Davos Forum, where more than 1,700 participants from over 90 countries are expected to discuss global economic trends, technological innovation and industrial transformation.
He is scheduled to address a high-level session on climate leadership and hold meetings with international business and policy leaders, including World Economic Forum President and Chief Executive Officer Alois Zwinggi.
After completing engagements in Dalian, PM Tarique will travel to Beijing, where the political and economic centerpiece of the visit will unfold through bilateral talks with Premier Li Qiang on June 25 and President Xi Jinping on June 26.