<div><b><span style="font-size: 1rem;">Bangladesh has expressed a keen interest in expanding China’s involvement in the power and energy sector. State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Nasrul Hamid, conveyed this strategic vision during a meeting with Yao Wen, the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, emphasising the need for a substantial $30 billion investment over the next five years.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The meeting, held at the state minister’s office on Monday, covered a wide array of mutual interests, laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation between the two nations. “We are looking forward to China playing a more substantial role. Bangladesh’s power and energy sector needs $30 billion in investment over the next five years,” stated Hamid.</div><div><br></div><div>He welcomed Ambassador Yao, highlighting China’s long-standing friendship. “Chinese companies are making significant contributions to the expansion of the power and energy sector,” the state minister said.</div><div><br></div><div>He also offered to form a special team to explore the potential fields of investment. “A specialised team can be formed to increase investment in the sector,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to the warm reception and the call for increased investment, Ambassador Yao reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. China’s cooperation with Bangladesh is growing, Yao remarked.</div><div><br></div><div>It’s essential for both nations to come together to strengthen the area of cooperation, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>The Chinese envoy hoped that Bangladesh will be more prosperous, stronger and a developed nation in the next five years.</div><div><br></div><div>They also discussed various issues including Chinese funded projects, setting up lithium battery factory, semi-conductor factory, electric vehicles, battery storage system, smart meter, solar and wind power project, electricity from waste, and gas extraction. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd/fas</div>