Coal-based ultra-critical power plant among deals BD-China signed

BEIJING: Bangladesh and China Monday signed five instruments, including two agreements, one memorandum of understanding (MoU) and two Exchange of Letters (EoLs), to enhance their mutual cooperation in sectors like trade and investment, power generation and climate change, according to a news agency.
Of the agreements, one is on establishing a coal-based ultra-critical 1320 MW power plant in Patuakhali district in joint venture and another on Economic and Technical Cooperation between China and Bangladesh.
The EoLs are on exchange of the second batch of calamity rescue equipment between the governments of Bangladesh and China and over a feasibility study on flood prevention and management in Bangladesh.
The MoU was signed between China Harbour and Engineering Company and Bangladesh Export Processing Zone Authority (BEPZA) for setting up a Chinese economic and investment zone in Chittagong.
Officials of the two countries signed the instruments and deals after official talks between the two countries at Great Hall of People.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang witnessed the signing ceremony.
Earlier, both countries had official talks where Sheikh Hasina and Li Keqiang led the respective delegations to the meeting that lasted for an hour.
After the meeting, Foreign Secretary Shahidul Haq said the talks were held in a very cordial, warm and friendly manner, and both leaders discussed various issues of bilateral interests and of common concerns.
During the discussions, the Foreign Secretary said, Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese government’s support for implementing five proposed projects.
The proposed projects are National ICT Infra-Network for Bangladesh Government (Phase-III), construction of Rajshahi Wasa Surface Water Treatment Plant, Construction of Second Railway-cum-Road Bridge over River Kharnaphuli at Kalurhgat point near the existing railway bridge, construction of a new Dual Gauge Railway Line from Chittagong to Cox’s Bazar via Ramu and Ramu to Gundum near Bangladesh-Myanmar border and establishment of Eastern Refinery Unit-2 and Single Point Mooring Project.
In response, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang assured of taking necessary steps by his government in this regard. Li Keqiang asked his commerce minister to prepare necessary methodologies for implementing the projects.
The issue of constructing Sonadia Deep Sea Port came up at the discussion between the two prime ministers and the two sides agreed to continue talks this regard, Shahidul Haq said.
In her introductory speech, Li Keqiang lauded Bangladesh Prime Minister’s dynamic and able leadership, and said the bilateral relations between the two countries have reached a new dimension following her visit to China.