Important partner

"Most importantly, the remark (of Xi) shows how China sees Bangladesh as an important partner in the Belt and Road Initiative. It also indicates an existing warm relationship between two countries," she said. "I also hope that this grows into such a stature that this will help people of the two countries and reduce the existing trade gaps."

On April 25, the 52nd Independence and National Day of Bangladesh, a cocktail reception was held in Hong Kong. Consul General of the People's Republic of Bangladesh in Hong Kong Israt Ara, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, and Deputy Commissioner Pan Yundong of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region attended the event.

In his address, Lee said Bangladesh has long been an important participant in the Belt and Road Initiative. "China has become Bangladesh's biggest trading partner and the cooperation between the two countries in various fields has advanced smoothly, to the benefit of the two peoples," said Lee.