Longi, the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, has decided to open an office and invest in solar panel manufacturing in Bangladesh, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen announced on 16th March.
According to the ambassador, a delegation of top Chinese solar panel manufacturers visited Bangladesh in December to explore investment opportunities.
This visit followed an invitation from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, who encouraged Chinese companies to relocate their manufacturing plants to Bangladesh as part of the Interim Government’s strategy to position the country as an economic hub.
Among the companies that explored investment prospects, at least two, including Longi, have decided to set up offices and manufacturing facilities in Bangladesh.
“They will be investing in Bangladesh very soon,” Ambassador Yao Wen informed Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus during a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna.
The ambassador noted that since August 5, when the autocratic regime of Sheikh Hasina was ousted, Chinese firms have emerged as the largest investors in Bangladesh.
He added that many more Chinese companies are keen to invest in the country, with a dedicated Chinese export processing zone expected to become operational soon.
Ambassador Yao Wen also highlighted the significance of the Chief Adviser’s upcoming official visit to China, calling it a milestone in the 50-year-long friendship between the two nations.
Welcoming further Chinese investment, Professor Yunus stated that Bangladesh has the potential to become a leading manufacturing hub for companies looking to export to Western markets. He also encouraged Chinese hospital chains to establish top-tier medical facilities in Bangladesh, either independently or through joint ventures with local healthcare providers.
“Bangladesh urgently needs large-scale investment in healthcare. This is a unique opportunity for Chinese hospital chains to build world-class medical facilities here,” he remarked.
In response, Ambassador Yao Wen announced that China has designated four hospitals in Kunming to cater specifically to Bangladeshi patients, with a group of Bangladeshis having already traveled there for treatment last week.
Additionally, the ambassador revealed that Peking University—one of the world’s most prestigious institutions—will confer an honorary doctorate upon Professor Yunus during his visit. The Chief Adviser will also deliver a speech at the university.
On March 28, Professor Yunus is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting will conclude with the release of a joint statement, further solidifying the partnership between the two countries.
