Chinese Premier Li Qiang has congratulated Tarique Rahman on his appointment as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, signaling Beijing’s intent to maintain strong bilateral ties as Dhaka navigates a period of political and economic transition.
The congratulatory message, delivered Tuesday, reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors, according to a report from The Daily Star. Li emphasized the “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between the two nations, noting a history of mutual respect and benefit since the establishment of diplomatic relations 51 years ago. He also expressed support for the new Bangladeshi government in ensuring “stable and effective governance.”
Rahman, sworn in as prime minister on Tuesday following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) landslide victory in the recent national election, faces the immediate challenge of reviving the Bangladeshi economy. The BNP has pledged to double the country’s GDP to $1 trillion by 2034, a target requiring sustained annual growth of approximately 9%, significantly higher than the current rate of around 4%.
The election that brought Rahman to power was marked by a ban on participation by the Awami League party, previously led by Sheikh Hasina, following student-led protests in 2024. The resurgence of the Jamaat-e-Islami party as a major political force also presents a new dynamic within Bangladeshi politics, particularly in the western regions bordering India. Rahman’s success will depend on navigating these political currents even as addressing youth discontent over employment and corruption.
China’s continued engagement under the Belt and Road Initiative is expected to be a key component of Bangladesh’s economic strategy. Premier Li Qiang indicated a willingness to function closely with Rahman to expand cooperation within this framework. The Chinese Premier’s message comes as Tarique Rahman has stated that Bangladesh’s interests will guide its foreign policy, prompting a reassessment of approaches from China, India, and the United States.
The Daily Star reported that several articles published on February 19th, 2026, highlighted the challenges facing the new administration, including the require for decisive action on education pledges and deregulation to rebuild state institutions.
