China duty bound to contribute to international development

Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Ma Mingqiang said China has taken up several initiatives like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) as the country is duty-bound to make contributions to international development endeavours.

He was speaking at a reception held marking Chinese National Day, the 66th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China, and the 40th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between China and Bangladesh, at the Chinese embassy on Wednesday evening.

The Chinese envoy hoped that both Bangladesh and China would work together to achieve the two countries' dreams.

He said over the 66 years China has made remarkable progress on all fronts. When China started its reform and opened itself to the outside world in 1978, the GDP per capita was only $224, ranking second from the bottom in the world, he added.

"Today the GDP per capita has risen to $7,500, increasing by 34 times. China is now the second largest economy, the biggest trade partner for more than 120 countries in the world," the ambassador said.

He said over the 40 years of bilateral relationship, China and Bangladesh have always respected each other and supported each other's endeavours to achieve stability, prosperity, and to improve people's livelihoods.

Referring to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's comment, he said she rightly said China-Bangladesh relationship is time-tested.

Three days ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping held a bilateral meeting with Sheikh Hasina in New York.

"They had a cordial exchange of views on a wide range of issues. I am confident the consensus from this meeting will further bring forward the friendly bilateral relations," he added.

Different political leaders, diplomats, and civil society members were also present.