Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, has emphasized that China’s cooperation with Bangladesh is aimed at benefiting the people of the country, rather than any specific government. Speaking at a seminar titled "China’s National Image in Bangladesh" held at a hotel in Dhaka on Tuesday (March 11), Ambassador Yao stated, "China always stands with a country and its people, not with any particular government."

He added, "Regardless of changes in the international arena or within any country, our policy is clear. China will remain a partner. Our cooperation is for Bangladesh, its people, and the Chinese people."

Ambassador Yao highlighted China’s interest in seeing stability, unity, and the development of democracy in Bangladesh under the leadership of Professor Muhammad Yunus, the principal advisor. Responding to a question about Dr. Yunus’s upcoming visit to China from March 26 to 29, the ambassador noted, "China invites leaders and heads of government from all countries, and at this moment, it is not possible to comment on the priority of this visit."

He also remarked that democracy does not have a universal form and can vary from country to country, with the people of each nation deciding its shape.

The seminar, organized by the private research organization Center for Alternatives, presented the findings of a 2024 survey conducted by the institution. Professor Imtiaz Ahmed, Executive Director of the Center, shared that 99% of survey respondents supported friendly relations between China and Bangladesh.

The survey revealed that approximately 67% of Bangladeshis hold a positive view of China in 2024, up from 60% in 2022. Additionally, 75% of Bangladeshis expressed a willingness to pursue higher education in China or send their children there, marking a 5% increase compared to 2022.

Ambassador Yao Wen noted that Bangladeshis widely welcome Chinese investment and recognize the significant role of bilateral cooperation in national development, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation. "These findings have strengthened China’s confidence in further advancing the strategic cooperative partnership between Bangladesh and China," he said.

Since the formation of the interim government, 14 Chinese companies have invested $213 million in Bangladesh. The ambassador also mentioned that a group of patients injured during recent protests traveled to China on March 10 for advanced medical treatment.

On the issue of Rohingya repatriation, Ambassador Yao stated, "This is primarily a matter between Bangladesh and Myanmar. China attempted to mediate, but efforts have stalled due to the deteriorating security situation in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine State."

The seminar underscored the deepening ties between Bangladesh and China, with a focus on mutual benefits and people-centric cooperation. Ambassador Yao’s remarks highlighted China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development and stability, irrespective of political changes, while also addressing challenges such as the Rohingya crisis.

The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong bilateral relationship, with both nations looking to strengthen their strategic partnership in the years to come.