'Ample scope' for further friendship and cooperation

Dhaka, Bangladesh - My father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of the nation of Bangladesh, visited China in 1953 and 1957. I grew up hearing about China and her wonderful people from him. I have also had the privilege of visiting China several times. China and her people have always fascinated me. I am happy to be here once again.

I have brought with me the greetings and good wishes for our Chinese friends. On my return, I wish to carry with me the warm friendship and goodwill of the Chinese people for our people in Bangladesh.

We, in Bangladesh, have watched with great admiration the phenomenal and sustained development achieved by the people of China over the last three decades. We felicitate the Chinese people and their leaders on their successes, and are eager to learn and benefit from their experiences and achievements.

Since establishment of diplomatic relations 35 years ago, China has emerged as a most dependable and consistent friend of Bangladesh. China has been a major partner in our socio-economic development efforts. Cooperation between our two countries have widened in all areas including trade, investment, agriculture, science, technology, defense, education, culture and tourism.

There is, however, ample scope for further deepening and expanding our "Comprehensive Partnership of Cooperation" in these as well as other new areas. During my present visit to China, I seek to work with the Chinese leaders to prepare the ground for lifting our friendship and cooperation to new heights.

Bangladesh-China friendship is based on the principles of good neighborliness, mutual understanding and respect, and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.

While China has always supported us in our socio-economic development efforts, Bangladesh, in turn, has always supported China on the issues of her core national interests.

We steadfastly follow the One China Policy and consider both Taiwan and Tibet as integral parts of China. We share common perceptions on important regional and international issues spanning trade liberalization, human rights, climate change and non-proliferation.

I believe that interaction at the people-to-people level is an important component in sustaining friendship and cooperation between our two countries. I hope to work with the Chinese leaders to widen contacts and understanding at the grassroots level.

May the Chinese people continue to march forward towards a more prosperous and happy future under their able and dynamic leaders. May the friendship between Bangladesh and China last forever!

The author Sheikh Hasina is Prime Minister of Bangladesh

(China Daily 03/18/2010 page15)