Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen has called for global collaboration, including support from Bangladesh and the European Union, to counter the ongoing impact of US-imposed reciprocal tariffs introduced during the Trump administration.
Speaking at a seminar in Dhaka on Sunday, he described the tariffs as a “crazy” disruption to the international trading system and urged a united front to restore global trade stability.
The seminar, “Reassessing Sino-Bangla Relations: Chief Adviser’s Landmark Visit,” was organized by the China-South Asia Centre for Socio-Cultural Studies of North South University. Khalilur Rahman, the National Security Adviser and High Representative to the Chief Adviser, attended as chief guest.
Ambassador Wen noted that while China has responded to the US tariffs with countermeasures, it remains open to dialogue. “We’ll fight back… but China is also ready to talk—if talks are based on mutual trust,” he said, adding that Beijing would wait to see the next steps taken by Washington.
The ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to defending the principles of free trade and upholding existing multilateral trade agreements.
He criticized the US approach for undermining international law and expressed hope for a multilateral solution involving like-minded partners.
On bilateral ties, Wen highlighted the strategic significance of the Chief Adviser’s recent visit to China, describing it as a milestone for Bangladesh-China relations. He reiterated that China’s engagement in Bangladesh, including large-scale infrastructure projects, was designed to benefit the people irrespective of the ruling party or political climate.
The ambassador confirmed China’s readiness to support Bangladesh in the Teesta River management project, describing it as another potential game-changer. He also noted China’s stance on Taiwan, affirming continued adherence to the One China policy and anticipating Bangladesh’s support in this regard.
