Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moin Khan has expressed his expectation that Bangladesh-China relations will be further strengthened and expanded into new areas of cooperation.

He made the remarks on Monday (September 21) while addressing a reception organised by the Bangladesh-China Cultural, Economic and Public Relations Centre at Gulshan Club in Dhaka to celebrate China’s National Day and bid farewell to Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen.

The minister described China as a longstanding and trusted friend of Bangladesh, noting that the late President Ziaur Rahman attached considerable importance to relations with China.

“There has been a longstanding friendship between the two countries, and I hope these ties will become even stronger in the future,” he said.

Expressing his regret over Ambassador Yao Wen’s departure, Dr Moin Khan said the envoy had provided continued support to Bangladesh during his nearly four-year tenure.

He said Yao Wen’s contributions had played an important role in advancing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and China.

“We are keen to further advance the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and China. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, I hope the relationship between the two countries will reach new heights in the days ahead,” the minister said.

Post and Telecommunications Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam attended the event as a special guest, while Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen was present as the guest of honour.