Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with China based on mutual respect, sovereignty, equality, and a shared vision of peace and prosperity.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of “Bangladesh Day” during the second day of the China-South Asia Expo 2026 in Kunming, the capital of China’s Yunnan Province, on Friday, the minister said the new democratic government of Bangladesh is working sincerely to build a sustainable partnership that delivers tangible benefits to the people of both countries, said a press release.

He noted that Bangladesh’s record participation in this year’s expo reflects the growing strength of Bangladesh-China relations and the government’s efforts to expand economic cooperation.

The Bangladesh Day celebration was attended by Mohammad Nazmul Islam, Yunnan Province Vice Governor Liu Yang, Deputy Director General of Yunnan’s Department of Commerce Li Yi, Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Vice Chairman and CEO Mohammad Hasan Arif, and China Council for the Promotion of International Trade President Liu Qi Lin, among others.

Senior officials from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce, the Export Promotion Bureau, the Bangladesh Consulate General in Kunming, and representatives of business organisations from both countries also participated in the event.

Addressing the gathering, Muktadir described Bangladesh Day as a celebration of the deep friendship and mutual trust that have developed between Bangladesh and China over the years.

“Today is a special day as we celebrate Bangladesh Day in the warm and welcoming city of Kunming. The opportunity to celebrate this occasion on Chinese soil reflects the enduring friendship and confidence shared by our two nations,” he said.

The minister promoted Bangladesh as “Destination Bangladesh – A Land of Unique Opportunities,” describing it as more than a slogan and calling it an open invitation for global investors and businesses.

He encouraged the Yunnan business community to invest in Bangladesh and increase imports of Bangladeshi products.

As part of the Bangladesh Day programme, a seminar titled “Bangladesh – Sourcing with Quality and Competitiveness” was held later in the day.

EPB Vice Chairman and CEO Mohammad Hasan Arif delivered the keynote presentation, highlighting Bangladesh’s export potential and competitive advantages.

Panel discussions featured representatives from the Bangladesh Embassy’s commercial wing in China, Yunnan’s Department of Commerce, the Bangladesh-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bangladesh Footwear and Leather Goods Association. Business leaders and government officials from both countries attended the seminar.

During the second day of the expo, the commerce minister also visited the Bangladesh Pavilion and toured several notable national pavilions from participating countries.

The 10th China-South Asia Expo and 30th China Kunming Import and Export Fair began on Thursday and will continue through 16 June. The international event has attracted approximately 2,300 exhibitors from 68 countries.

Organised by Bangladesh’s Export Promotion Bureau with support from the Bangladesh Consulate General in Kunming, this year’s expo features a record participation from Bangladesh, with 175 representatives from 101 companies showcasing products from key export sectors, including ready-made garments, textiles, pharmaceuticals, jute and jute products, leather goods, plastics, and handicrafts.