China wants to set up agri machinery factories in Bangladesh

China has expressed keen interest to set up agricultural machinery manufacturing factories in Bangladesh, agro-industrial parks for agro-processing, and agricultural technology cooperation centres for training scientists and joint research.

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen made the proposal at a meeting with Agriculture Minister Md Abdur Razzaque at the Secretariat this morning.

Welcoming China’s offer, the agriculture minister said the Bangladesh government will provide all kinds of assistance.

The minister also requested the ambassador to provide more scholarships in the field of higher education for Bangladeshi scientists.

He said Bangladesh wants to maintain good relations with all countries keeping the national interest first.

“Bangladesh-China relations are very important for economic development and peace and stability in the region. There are many opportunities to boost cooperation in the field of agriculture between Bangladesh and China,” Razzaque said adding, “Cooperation in the agriculture sector will take Sino-Bangladesh bilateral relations to new heights.”

The agriculture minister also asked for China’s support to help repatriate the Rohingyas.

“Bangladesh is a small country with a population of 170 million. In such a situation, it is very difficult to ensure food, shelter, medical, and security for one million Rohingyas. Moreover, Rohingyas are also a threat to the security of the country,” he said.

In response, the Chinese ambassador said, “China is working sincerely to find a permanent solution to the Rohingya problem.”