China is now waiting to know the government decision about two vital projects-building a deep seaport and launching Bangladesh's first satellite 'Bangabandhu Satellite' in the space - as the world's number two economy has already expressed its interest for the projects, reports UNB.
"It's for Bangladesh government to make its decision…also there're different voices coming from the government side, so I keep silence," Chinese Ambassador Li Jun told a country lecture session titled 'China's Development and China-Bangladesh Relationship' in the city on Wednesday.
He mentioned that these two projects and constructing an exhibition centre here were among the several important projects discussed during Bangladesh Prime Minister's visit to China in 2010.
The government is examining the proposals of some countries to invest in the proposed deep seaport at Sonadia Island while the offer extended by China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) over the launch of the country's first satellite is also under consideration.
CGWIC is the sole commercial organisation authorised by the Chinese government to provide satellites, commercial launch services and to carry out international space cooperation.
Regarding progress on the exhibition centre, Jun said Chinese experts visited Bangladesh and almost finalised the design. "It's progressing but still there are things to be discussed."
Terming Bangladesh the best destination for Chinese investment, the Chinese envoy said an exclusive EPZ for China will be much helpful for an easier access for the investors. "Let Chinese companies come here as they know the Chinese market's need."
China is now restructuring its economy and the annual outbound Chinese investment has been around US$ 100 billion in the last few years.
Quoting a Chinese importer, the diplomat said Bangladesh's RMG export to China will climb to US$ 1-billion mark from the current US$ 100-million one within 3-5 years.
"Thinking that the Chinese market for RMG is over US$ 200 billion and the labour cost skyrockets in China, I don't think his prediction is unreasonable," he added.
Jun also talked about Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Economic Corridor (BCIM-EC) and mentioned that transportation connectivity will lay an important foundation.
