C T Online Desk: The “China-Bangladesh People-to-People Exchange Year: Yunnan Education and Health Promotion” programme was held today at the Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban, University of Dhaka.
Organised jointly by the University of Dhaka and the People’s Government of Yunnan Province of China, the event aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of education and healthcare.
The programme was held as part of the ongoing celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China and the 2025 Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Distinguished guests at the event included Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University; Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Mr Yao Wen; Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Md Jasim Uddin; Advisor to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Nurjahan Begum; Advisor to the Ministry of Education Professor Dr A.S. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar; and Governor of Yunnan Province H.E. Mr Wang Yubo.
The programme featured cultural performances by Chinese students and members of the Confucius Institute at Dhaka University. Audiences were treated to a rendition of the folk song ‘Chhoto Nadi Boi Chola’ from Yunnan Province, as well as the Bangla classic ‘Tir Hara Ei Dheuyer Sagar’, highlighting the cultural harmony between the two nations.
Speaking at the event, Advisor on Health and Family Welfare Nurjahan Begum emphasised the significance of the programme in reflecting the long-standing friendship between the two countries. “This initiative represents five decades of national friendship. China’s medical support and pharmaceutical contributions are vital to Bangladesh’s healthcare sector,” she said.
She also recalled China’s humanitarian assistance following the July Uprising of 2024. “We lost 2,000 lives, and many were injured. When we sought help, China responded promptly. A Chinese medical team arrived on September 22 and provided immediate support to the injured,” she added.
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen announced a new milestone in bilateral trade, stating, “For the first time, Bangladesh will export mangoes to China. Chinese citizens can enjoy Bangladeshi mangoes starting this May.” He also expressed hope for deepening cooperation in various sectors.
Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan noted the longstanding historical ties between China and Bangladesh, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. He highlighted the growing academic collaboration between the two nations, sharing that around 500 DU students are currently studying at the Confucius Institute, while 16 Chinese students are enrolled in various departments at the university.
“Looking ahead, we hope to welcome more Chinese scholars and students to foster even deeper academic and cultural exchanges,” he added.
As the closest Chinese province to Bangladesh, Yunnan plays a strategic role in enhancing connectivity and cooperation. The event showcased Yunnan’s advancements in education and healthcare, opening new avenues for collaboration in research, talent development, and medical technology.
