Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has begun a significant diplomatic mission to China, marking the second leg of his first overseas tour since taking office in February. The visit follows a two‑day stop in Malaysia, where Rahman held talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and oversaw the signing of multiple cooperation instruments. His China trip is expected to deepen Dhaka’s economic, political and strategic engagement with one of its largest development partners.
Rahman and his wife arrived at Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport, where they were received by senior Chinese and Bangladeshi officials, including Liaoning Vice Governor Bai Ying, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen and Bangladesh Ambassador Md. Nazmul Islam. His first major engagement is participation in the World Economic Forum’s Summer Davos, where he will deliver a speech titled “Climate Leadership in a Shifting Global Landscape” and meet global political and business leaders. He is also scheduled to attend a banquet hosted by Chinese Premier Li Qiang and hold talks with the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan before travelling to Beijing.
The Beijing leg of the visit is expected to be the most consequential. Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam has confirmed that both sides aim to sign 15–17 bilateral agreements, covering infrastructure, trade, energy, digital cooperation and security. Discussions will also include the long‑pending Teesta River project, a major strategic and developmental priority for Dhaka. Rahman is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on 26 June, a meeting expected to shape the next phase of Bangladesh‑China relations.
The visit carries significance beyond economics. It marks the “Golden 50 Years” of diplomatic ties and signals Dhaka’s intent to rebalance its foreign policy. Notably, Rahman chose Malaysia and China for his first official visits despite an invitation from India, highlighting shifting regional priorities.