China eyes bullet train to Chattogram, Sylhet as Bangladesh seeks deeper ties

Dhaka: China is considering introducing high-speed rail technology on the Dhaka-Chattogram and Dhaka-Sylhet corridors, paving the way for potential bullet train services in Bangladesh as the two countries move to deepen cooperation across infrastructure, trade, and investment.

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen announced the proposal while addressing a program in Dhaka organized by the Bangladesh-China Friendship Association on July 18. He said Beijing is also expediting the technical feasibility study for the Teesta River Comprehensive Management Project and remains ready to provide the technical and financial support needed for its implementation.

The ambassador said China continues to support Bangladesh’s development through cooperation in infrastructure, connectivity, and trade. He added that work on the Bangladesh-China-Myanmar (BCM) Economic Corridor is progressing, while China’s decision to allow imports of fresh Bangladeshi jackfruit is expected to create new export opportunities for local farmers.

Speaking at the same event, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Bangladesh is keen to further strengthen its strategic and economic partnership with China.

He said the recent visit of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to Beijing has opened new avenues for cooperation in modern technology, renewable energy, infrastructure development, and investment. Bangladesh also hopes to attract greater Chinese investment and technology transfer while expanding bilateral trade, he added.