Deals on 12 projects likely during PM's China tour

Bangladesh and China are likely to strike deals on at least 12 projects during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Beijing visit on July 8-11, say sources about the new development recipe.
The list of the potential projects for announcement during the upcoming visit was prepared following a consultation meeting between the two sides.

The meeting was held in Beijing to do the spadework for the upcoming tour, officials told the FE.
The list contains projects as follows: (1) Southern Integrated Development Initiatives Various Ministries (SIDI) (2) Construction of China-Bangladesh Friendship Bridge on Kocha River in Pirojpur District (3) Construction of Bhanga-Barishal-Kuakata road (4) Establishment of Special Economic Zone (5) Renovation of Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (6) Construction of Maheshkhali/Matarbari- Bakhrabad 3rd Parallel Gas  Transmission Pipeline (7) Construction of Sewage Treatment Plant in Local Government Mirpur Division (8) Metro Rail Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit Development Project Line-2 (9)Renovation of Bangabandhu International Convention Centre (BICC), (10) Construction of High-Tech Bridge on Rural Local Government Roads (11) Construction of the Sewage Collection System under Dasherkandi STP Catchment of Dhaka City and (12) Procurement of 04 New Vessels.
Special focus will be given on the 'Southern Integrated Development Initiatives (SIDI), which is a 'significant and unique effort involving projects across multiple sectors, including transport and communications, ICT, development of ports, power and energy, Special Economic Zone, and logistics hubs.
Officials appear upbeat about outcome of the latest China-aided uplift schemes, in addition to numerous megaprojects already completed or under implementation under a Chinese credit line.
"Bangladesh-China partnership will reach historic highs, facilitating the establishment of green EV (electric vehicle) plants, hi-tech parks, and logistics hubs at strategic locations," says an official concerned.
The SIDI initiative is first of its kind among bilateral partners and has significant implications for enhancing commerce, trade, and investment.
"Implementation of these projects will provide a significant opportunity for China to make its mark in urban transport and showcase Chinese technology, alongside other development partners," said the official, quoting deliberations made at the consultation.
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