China
Honor 200 Pro Review: A Flagship Camera Experience
Honor has been manufacturing smartphones on a wider spectrum. The brand moved away from budget and mid-range devices to full-on flagships. In this wave, the Honor 200 Pro was launched in China on 31st May 2024. It brings impressive features with a distinct camera experience to cater to photography enthusiasts. Here are more details about the Honor 200 Pro.
Key Specifications of Honor 200 Pro
Design and Build Quality
Honor is known for their incremental design changes from one iteration to the other. The 200 Pro is also no different. The device feels like a more textured and refined version of last year’s 100 Pro with subtle changes here and there.
The design inspiration for the 200 Pro comes from Gaudi’s Casa Mila and the natural coastline of the beaches. The subtle curve on the display also makes for a chic design choice. The screen-to-body ratio comes in at 90.8% even with a slight chin at the bottom.
With a dimension of 163.3 mm by 75.2 mm by 8.2 mm, the 200 Pro is not a small phone by any means. However, the dual glass and plastic frame allows for a manageable 199 g weight.
Read more: Xinji Nothing 3 Review: Amoled Smartwatch for 5000 Taka
There’s a large vertical oval camera housing on the back which is its distinct markup. Ports and buttons are all in their usual space with an IR blaster included this time around. There is no extendable storage or headphone jack on the 200 Pro.
The device comes in Moonlight White, Black, and Ocean Cyan variants. The international version will have an IP65 rating.
The Display
The display on the 200 Pro is a 6.78-inch LTPS OLED panel with 1B colors, 120Hz refresh rate, and 4000 nits of peak brightness. The panel has a resolution of 1224 by 2700 pixels with 437 ppi density. Additional specs include a 3840 Hz risk-free dimming display, AI circadian night display, natural tone 2.0, hardware, and dynamic dimming among others.
Beyond the basics, the display also incorporates hyper-dynamic color technology along with full-chain HDR vivid codec to ensure a sharp and detailed panel. The color accuracy of the 200 Pro is also impressive with a Delta E score of about 0.27.
Read more: Smart Plugs Buyers’ Guide, Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024
Additional features like TUV Rheinland Flicker Free certification, Netflix, and Amazon HDR certification make the 200 Pro a perfect device for media consumption.
The Camera
The camera is the main game changer on the 200 Pro. The main sensor is a 50 MP f/1.9, 1/1.3" H9000 shooter with PDAF, OIS, and EIS. This is the same sensor found on the flagship Honor Magic 6 Pro. The second camera is a 50 MP, f/2.4 telephoto sensor with OIS and up to 2.5x zoom. Furthermore, its third camera features a 12 MP, f/2.2, 112˚ ultrawide shooter on the 200 Pro.
On the front, there’s a 50 MP, f/2.1 main shooter and a 2 MP, f/2.4 depth sensor.
Honor has been branding the 200 Pro as “The Portrait Master” and it’s easy to see why. Honor has partnered with the Paris-based Studio Harcourt to perfect their portrait shot on both the front and back camera. And the result is quite praiseworthy.
Read more: Motorola Edge 50 Pro Review: A Competent Mid-Range Smartphone
There’s a clear separation between the subject and the background while maintaining the edges and details. The AI-rendered lighting allows for a perfect DSLR-like shot every time while using the portrait mode.
There are also two separate modes on the main shooter, natural and authentic. The natural mode produced pictures with amped-up colors and details while the authentic mode stayed true to the actual setting. The wide dynamic range and exposure balance on the 200 Pro have been impressive which aids in a perfect shot every time you click the shutter. The wide-angle and the telephoto lens along with the front camera were equally impressive.
The night mode also supports the two picture modes. However, the images in natural mode came out with better details and exposure.
Read more: TECNO's CAMON 30 Series wins Platinum at MUSE Design Awards
The videography on the front and rear sensors of 200 Pro is rated at 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 30fps.
Processor and Performance
The processor on the 200 Pro is Qualcomm SM8635 Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 based on a 4 Nm architecture. It has a chip design of 1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X4 & 4x2.8 GHz Cortex-A720 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A520 with Adreno 735 GPU.
On paper, the 8s Gen 3 is slightly below the flagship 8 Gen 3 processor. But in day-to-day use, the difference isn’t much noticeable. The 200 Pro can handle day-to-day tasks with ease without any hiccups whatsoever.
While gaming with 200 Pro, PUBG, and Genshin Impact can run with steady frame rates of over 50 fps. The heating issue also maxed at around 40 to 43 degrees Celsius which didn’t trigger any kind of thermal throttling.
Read more: Top Home Electronics in Bangladesh for 2024: Simplify Your Life with These Smart Devices
Benchmark
GeekBench 6: 1883 (single core), 4759 (multi-core)
3DMark Wild Life: 10918
Antutu 10: 1281655
DXOMark: 137 (2nd in High-End Ranking)
Software
The Honor 200 Pro is running on MagicOS 8 based on Android 14. The MagicOS comes with a full Google suite so users won’t have to worry about 3rd party solutions. The OS itself has minimal bloatware but overall, a very clean and responsive UI. Features like Magic Portal, Magic Capsule, and Air gestures truly alleviate the overall user experience of the OS.
Honor has also committed to 4 years of major OS updates and 5 years of security patches for the 200 Pro.
Battery and Charge Time
There’s a 5200 mAh battery on the Honor 200 Pro. The battery supports 100W wired Honor SuperCharge and 66W of wireless charging. Moreover, it features 5W reverse charging. The device can get up to 50% in just 30 minutes through wired charging and up to 64% in 30 minutes through wireless charging.
Read more: OnePlus Nord CE 4 Lite 5G Review: Know the Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons of Honor 200 Pro
Pros
- LTPS OLED panel with 120 Hz refresh rate - Coastline design - Flagship grade camera - Dual front shooter- High-end processor - IP65 water and dust resistance - Stereo speakers and IR blaster - Standard battery with wired, wireless and reverse charging - Based on Android 14 with MagicOS 8.
Cons
- No headphone jack or external card slot - No Gorilla Glass protection - A bit expensive compared to the processor.
Read more: Vivo Y28 4G Review: Is it a value-for-money smartphone?
Price of Honor 200 Pro
The Honor 200 Pro is available in the 12/512 GB variant in the Malaysian market. The price is 2699 RM which roughly translates to 67,869 BDT (1 MYR = 25.15 BDT). Honor has plans to officially launch the device in Bangladesh, so we might see a similar price in Bangladesh as well.
Verdict
The Honor 200 Pro is a game changer offering a flagship-level camera experience at a high-mid range budget. The great camera system is coupled with a great display, impressive design, powerful processor, and long-lasting battery life.
The only gripe with the 200 Pro is its price. At over 60000, the processor should’ve been a flagship level instead of a near-flagship one.
On the whole, those who are looking for a higher mid-range phone offering a great photography experience may consider the Honor 200 Pro.
Read more: 7 Best Smartphones in Tk 35000-45000 Range in July 2024
Bangladesh and China agree to increase use of local currency in bilateral trade
Bangladesh and China have agreed to enhance cooperation in financial regulation, and encouraged increased use of local currency settlement in bilateral trade, according to a joint statement issued after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s three-day official visit to Beijing.
Hasina returned home early hours of Thursday after talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Qiang.
The Bangladesh side welcomes Chinese banks to establish branches in Bangladesh, and vice versa.
Bangladesh and China agreed to strengthen coordination in international and multilateral affairs, and expressed readiness to further coordinate positions and build broader consensus in multilateral processes concerning international peace and security, sustainable development, human rights, humanitarian affairs, climate change, energy transition and environmental protection, to jointly safeguard the common interest of developing countries.
The two sides discussed various aspects of the Global Development Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping.
The Chinese side is ready to share experience on GDI issues with the Bangladesh side.
How Chinese media covered the PM’s Beijing visit
The Chinese side also presented the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) to the Bangladesh side to ensure peace, development and shared prosperity for all.
PM Hasina paid an official visit to China from July 8 to 10 at the invitation of Premier Li.
During the visit, Hasina had a meeting with Xi and met with Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.
In a cordial and friendly atmosphere, the two sides had in-depth exchange of views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest, and reached extensive consensus.
The Bangladesh side congratulated the Chinese side on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and applauded China’s historic achievements and transformation in economic and social development in the new era.
Bangladesh lauded China’s efforts to build itself into a great modern socialist country in all respects and advance the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through the Chinese path to modernisation, and expressed sincere wish for China to realise the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation as scheduled.
The Chinese side applauded the achievements of Bangladesh in economic and social development, and expressed continued support for Bangladesh’s graduation from the UN Least Developed Countries (LDC) status in 2026 as scheduled and Bangladesh’s steady progress toward realising its Vision 2041 of a “Smart Bangladesh.”
The two sides applauded their strategic partnership of cooperation established in 2016, and agreed that the China-Bangladesh relationship has reached a new height.
Xi-Hasina meeting: China to cooperate with Bangladesh in grants and loans
Leaders of the two countries agreed to stay committed to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, carry forward the long-standing friendship, foster greater synergy between development strategies of the two countries, advance the Belt and Road cooperation, and elevate the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
The two sides decided to take the opportunity of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations in 2025 to plan together for the future development of bilateral ties and take the China-Bangladesh relationship to another new height.
The two sides agreed that China and Bangladesh have been good neighbours and good friends since ancient times, sharing a millennium-old history of friendly exchanges.
Over the past 49 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the traditional China-Bangladesh friendship forged by generations of leaders of both countries has grown from strength to strength.
The two countries have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, and pursued mutual benefits. With ever deepening mutual trust, the two countries have achieved fruitful outcomes in their practical cooperation, and kept close collaboration in international and regional affairs, thus setting a fine example of friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation in relations between countries.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and to mutual understanding and support on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns.
The Chinese side firmly supports Bangladesh in maintaining peace and stability, realising development goals as envisioned under Vision 2041, non-interference in its internal affairs, and independently choosing a development path suited to its national conditions.
The two sides stressed that the authority of the U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 is beyond question and brooks no challenge.
Bangladesh reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China principle and its position that the government of the People’s Republic of China represents the whole of China, and Taiwan is part of China, and Bangladesh supports China on issues pertaining to China's core interests and China's efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Read more: China to continue zero-tariff treatment to Bangladesh for transitional period beyond 2026
How Chinese media covered the PM’s Beijing visit
Bangladesh and China elevated their ties during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Beijing this week, according to the consensus in Chinese media outlets, a preponderance of which happen to be state-owned.
The two countries on Wednesday upgraded their relations to a ‘comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership’.
Xi-Hasina meeting: China to cooperate with Bangladesh in grants and loans
China’s state-led international broadcaster, CGTN, which broadcasts in English, reported the upgrade with an emphasis on Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech during the meeting.
Xi said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975, the two countries have always shown mutual respect and support, treated each other on an equal footing and engaged in win-win cooperation, according to CGTN. He also said the relationship between China and Bangladesh stands as a shining example of amicable interactions and mutually beneficial partnerships, particularly among Global South nations.
Chinese PM announces 1 billion RMB for Bangladesh as economic assistance: Hasan Mahmud
Xi urged the two sides to make efforts for the Year of People-to-People Exchanges between China and Bangladesh next year to promote exchanges and cooperation in fields such as culture, tourism, media and sports, CGTN reported, adding that he said China is ready to work closely with Bangladesh on international and regional affairs, and strengthen coordination and cooperation within the United Nations and other multilateral frameworks.
The website of the People’s Daily, the Chinese Communist Party's flagship newspaper, had Xinhua News Agency’s report on the visit as its lead item on Wednesday night, under the title: “Xi meets Bangladeshi PM.”
PM’s China visit not shortened; programmes unchanged: Foreign Minister
Global Times, another one of the CCP’s official mouthpieces, in a piece titled “China, Bangladesh elevate ties, broaden cooperation” on Wednesday, repeated most of the things CGTN reported from Xi’s speech, and carried the prime minister’s assurances that “Bangladesh firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports China's stance on the Taiwan question, resolutely opposes external forces' interference in China's internal affairs, and firmly supports China in safeguarding its core interests”.
The report quoted Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, as saying that the visit by Hasina is a link between the past and the future for bilateral relations, especially in promoting high-level cooperation in the field of economy and trade.
The development strategies of the two countries will be further synergized, and more economic and trade cooperation projects are expected to be implemented in the future, injecting more substantive connotations into the duo's strategic cooperative relations, Qian told Global Times.
Another expert that Global Times spoke to, Hu Zhiyong, a research fellow with the Institute of International Relations at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said the visit would further promote the traditional friendship between the two countries.
Through cooperation over the past years, Bangladesh has clearly seen how China's development ideas and experience have played a huge role in promoting the economic and social development of Bangladesh, Hu said.
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing announce 7 outcomes, including completion of feasibility study on FTA
The Global Times report also noted the Indian angle, reporting: “[S]ome Indian media outlets viewed Hasina's China visit as ‘a balancing act to keep the two key players happy,’ as ‘she needs India to be in power, and China for economic support.’ Some Indian media also talked down the cooperation between Beijing and Dhaka.”
In this context, Hu told Global Times: “India always uses various excuses to obstruct and create hype whenever a South Asian leader visits China, but New Delhi should not be overly concerned that other countries' engagement with China will damage their relations with India.”
Meanwhile Qian, the other expert quoted in the report, said: “For Bangladesh, in the face of pressure from India, the development of China-Bangladesh relations also provides a valuable choice for Dhaka to better safeguard its diplomatic independence and development opportunities.”
Global Times also reported separately on ‘The Summit on Trade, Business, and Investment Opportunities between Bangladesh and China’ that took place on Tuesday, and on the day of the PM’s arrival in Beijing, Monday, carried an op-ed titled ‘China-Bangladesh bonhomie benefits both’ by Zhang Xiaoyu, an expert in South Asian Studies at the Communication University of China.
The South China Morning Post, one of the few privately-owned media outlets in the country, based out of Hong Kong, titled its report “China and Bangladesh pledge to fight external interference and boost economic cooperation” on Wednesday.
It said Hasina reassured Xi over Taiwan, calling it ‘Beijing’s most sensitive issue’, and quoted the prime minister as saying, “Bangladesh firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports China’s position on the Taiwan issue, and resolutely opposes external forces interfering in China’s internal affairs”.
SCMP also quoted Xi via the other state broadcaster CCTV, which broadcasts in Chinese, as saying, “China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with Bangladesh in multilateral fields, oppose hegemony and power politics, and better safeguard international fairness and justice and the common interests of developing countries.”
The newspaper noted that China’s loans to “the debt-ridden country” have raised fears that Bangladesh will be caught in a “debt trap” and struggle to repay them. It said Hasina met Jin Liqun, president of the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank, to ask for the country’s interest payments to be reduced, and recalled Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud’s announcement prior to the trip that a $5 billion loan would be sought from China.
SCMP reports that there has been “no immediate response from China to the requests”.
China’s official Xinhua News Agency quoted Wang Huning, a member of China’s Politburo Standing Committee who met with Hasina, as saying that “China and Bangladesh have respected and treated each other with equality, setting a good example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries.”
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing sign 21 cooperation documents; announce 7 outcomes to strengthen ties on diverse fronts
PM’s China visit not shortened; programmes unchanged: Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today (July 10, 2024) said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ongoing official China visit has not been shortened, but she is returning home tonight to give time to her daughter Saima Wazed who is unwell.
“There has been no change in her official engagements. She was supposed to stay in Beijing tonight. But she is returning to spend time with her daughter,” he told reporters.
The Foreign Minister said that Saima Wazed, who is the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia, was supposed to be part of the visit but she could not as she fell sick on July 8 morning.
Saima Wazed is still unwell, said Hasan.
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing sign 21 cooperation documents to strengthen ties on diverse fronts
Bangladesh and China today signed 21 cooperation documents, mostly MoUs, eyeing stronger development and economic cooperation between the two Asian countries.
The two countries also announced seven outcomes, including the conclusion of a joint feasibility study on Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Prime Minister Hasina will leave Beijing for Dhaka tonight, wrapping up her bilateral visit to China.
A special flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the Prime Minister and her entourage will depart Beijing Capital International Airport at 10 pm (local time) tonight and is scheduled to land at 1 am (Bangladesh time).
The premier was earlier scheduled to leave Beijing for Dhaka on Thursday morning.
During her stay in Beijing from July 8 to 10, the Bangladesh Prime Minister had a delegation level bilateral meeting with her Chinese counterpart Li Qiang today.
Prime Minister Hasina held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping today.
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing announce 7 outcomes, including completion of feasibility study on FTA
Dhaka, Beijing announce 7 outcomes, including completion of feasibility study on FTA
Bangladesh and China on Wednesday (July 10, 2024) announced seven outcomes, including that conclusion of joint feasibility study on Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Other announced outcomes are commencement of negotiation on the optimisation of Bangladesh-China bilateral investment treaty; completion of the Modernization of Telecommunication Network for Digital Connectivity project; completion of trial run of the Single Point Mooring with Double Pipe Line project; commencement of Rajshahi WASA Surface Water Treatment Plant; and signing of MoU between Shandong Agricultural University and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur; and the construction of Luban Workshop in Bangladesh.
Dhaka-Beijing bilateral meeting starts
The outcomes were announced after the delegation-level bilateral meeting led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is now visiting Beijing as part of her official visit at the invitation of Chinese premier Li Qiang.
She will end her visit after holding a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jingping on Wednesday afternoon.
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing likely to sign around 20 MoUs; announce some dev projects: Hasan Mahmud
Dhaka, Beijing sign 21 cooperation documents; announce 7 outcomes to strengthen ties on diverse fronts
Bangladesh and China on Wednesday signed 21 cooperation documents, mostly MoUs, eyeing stronger development and economic cooperation between the two Asian countries.
The two countries also announced seven outcomes, including the conclusion of joint feasibility study on Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The documents were signed and outcome announced after the delegation-level bilateral meeting led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People. Hasina arrived in Beijing on Monday on a three-day official visit at the invitation of her Chinese counterpart.
Briefing the media, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said Chinese Primer Li Qiang announced to provide one billion dollars for Bangladesh as economic assistance.
The signed documents are MoU on strengthening investment cooperation in the Digital Economy; MoU on Banking and Insurance Regulatory between China National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA) and Bangladesh Bank; Protocol of Phytosanitary Requirements Export of Fresh Mangoes from Bangladesh to China; MoU on Exchange and Cooperation in the field of Economic Development Policy; MoU on Trade and Investment Cooperation; MoU on Strengthening Digital Economy Cooperation; Minutes of discussions on the Feasibility Study of the China-aid National Emergency Operation Center in Bangladesh Project; Exchange the Letters on the China-aid 6th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge Renovation Project; Exchange the Letters on the Feasibility Study of China-aid Construction of Nateshwar Archaeological Site Park in Bangladesh Project; Exchange the Letters on the China-aid 9th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge Project; MoU on Strengthening the Cooperation in Medical Care and Public Health; MoU on Strengthening the Infrastructure Cooperation; MoU on Cooperation on Green and Low-Carbon Development; renewing the MoU upon Provision of Hydrological Information of the Yaluzangbu/Brahmaputra River in Flood Season by China to Bangladesh; MoU between National Radio and Television Administration and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of Bangladesh; MoU between the China Media Group (CMG) and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS); MoU between the China Media Group (CMG) and BTV; agreement between the Xinhua News Agency and BSS; agreement between the Xinhua News Agency and BTV; renewing the MoU between the Ministry of Education of China and the Ministry of Education of Bangladesh and MoU Regarding Public-Private Partnership for Sustainable Infrastructure Development.
Other announced outcomes are commencement of negotiation on the optimisation of Bangladesh-China bilateral investment treaty; completion of the Modernization of Telecommunication Network for Digital Connectivity project; completion of trial run of the Single Point Mooring with Double Pipe Line project; commencement of Rajshahi WASA Surface Water Treatment Plant; and signing of MoU between Shandong Agricultural University and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur; and the construction of Luban Workshop in Bangladesh.
PM Hasina wrapped up her visit after holding a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jingping on Wednesday afternoon.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to leave Beijing at 10pm (Beijing time) on Wednesday.
Briefing the media, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud said the Chinese Premier also said they give utmost importance to the relationship with Bangladesh.
He said the Chinese Premier also expressed his desire to take the relations between Bangladesh and China to a new level.
In a cordial environment there was a fruitful discussion between Bangladesh and China regarding all issues, said the foreign minister.
Hasan said Li recalled the relationship that was planted through the 1952 and 1957 visits of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and with six visits of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the relations will be expanded further in the coming days.
Sheikh Hasina invited the Chinese president, prime minister and others to visit Bangladesh next year to celebrate the 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Both the leaders put emphasis on celebrating the golden jubilee of the diplomatic relationship in a befitting manner.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sought Chinese cooperation to resolve the Rohingya issue.
She put emphasis on reducing the trade gap with China. In reply, the Chinese prime minister talked about importing more Bangladesh products to his country.
Hasina requested her Chinese counterpart to import leather products, jute products, pharmaceutical goods, and ceramic products.
Both countries have agreed to work together to establish world peace and uphold humanity across the globe.
PM Hasina invited more Chinese investments in 100 special economic zones and Bangabandhu Industrial Park mentioning that Bangladesh has allotted one export processing zone for Chinese investors.
She pointed out Bangladesh’s desire to be included in BRICS in any format.
Li assured her of their support regarding this inclusion.
Hasina sought Chinese cooperation so that Bangladesh could enjoy the LDC facilities at least three more years in its official graduation to middle income country after 2026.
The Chinese prime minister gave a positive response.
Nagad, Huawei ink deal during PM’s China visit to provide world-class transaction services
Bangladeshi mobile financial service provider Nagad Ltd and Huawei Technologies have signed an agreement, which will provide world-class smart transaction experiences through Nagad.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the Shangri-La Hotel in Beijing on Tuesday, according to a press release.
Following this agreement, Nagad Digital Bank and Nagad’s existing mobile financial services will be integrated with cutting-edge global technologies. As a result, customers of the country’s first digital bank will enjoy international-standard transaction services anytime, anywhere, it said.
Nagad mega campaign: 31 more winners receive attractive gifts
Nagad founder and CEO Tanvir A Mishuk and President of Huawei South Asia Region and CEO of Huawei Bangladesh Pan Junfeng signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.
Finance Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, PM’s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman F Rahman, State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak and Chairman of Nagad Digital Bank Muhammad Farid Khan, were present at the time.
Several ministers and senior officials of the Chinese government were also present at the event.
At the time, Li Fei, Chinese Vice-Minister of Commerce, praised Nagad’s contribution to Bangladesh’s economic growth and financial inclusion, said the media release.
Farid Khan, Chairman of Nagad Digital Bank, said, “Nagad MFS has brought about a major revolution in Bangladesh’s financial sector over the past five years. Now is the time to take it to a global standard. Nagad and Huawei will jointly work to achieve this for Bangladesh. Nagad Digital Bank will play a unique role in this, which will significantly contribute to building a smart Bangladesh.”
Proposal to expand social safety net positive: Nagad
“To ensure the technological development required for a 100 percent cashless society, we have signed this agreement with the world-renowned company Huawei Technologies. Through this, our MFS and digital bank customers in Bangladesh will enjoy world-class services causing digital transactions to become more comfortable and affordable,” he also said.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina began her China visit on July 8. During this visit, several notable agreements and memorandums of understanding are being signed between the two countries, added the release.
Unlocking China’s market: Strategies for Bangladesh to enhance exports
Bangladesh faces significant hurdles in benefitting from duty-free market access to China, the world’s second-largest economy, due to various systemic and strategic issues. Business leaders emphasize the necessity of signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China to boost Bangladeshi exports.
A recent study by the Research and Policy Integration for Development (RAPID) revealed that Bangladesh could potentially earn an additional $27 billion by exporting quality and diversified goods to China, provided its market share increases to 1 percent. However, the report also identifies several critical barriers preventing this growth.
Bangladesh to seek $7 billion fund from China to boost trade in business summit during PM's visit
One primary obstacle is Bangladesh’s heavy reliance on the ready-made garment (RMG) sector. Although China imports $10 billion worth of garment items, Bangladesh’s inability to meet high-quality standards limit its export success.
“China is the top garment exporter to the USA, EU, and UK, while Bangladesh’s exports rely 84 percent on garments,” noted Dr. MA Razzaque, Chairman of RAPID.
Dr. Razzaque highlighted that China prefers high-quality garments from Italy and other European countries, importing around $10 billion of such products. To penetrate the Chinese market, Bangladesh must diversify its exports and improve product quality. He emphasized the need for aggressive policies, including attracting China-oriented investments and signing trade agreements.
Bangladesh holds the right to decide on Teesta project; China to accept any decision: Ambassador Yao
Other significant barriers are:
- Lack of integration with Chinese retailers.
- Insufficient participation in marketing, sales, and after-sale services.
- Cultural and language barriers.
- Stringent Chinese labeling and packaging regulations.
Dr. Razzaque also pointed out the price competitiveness issue, noting that Chinese products often have lower prices than similar quality Bangladeshi products. The burgeoning e-commerce sector in China represents another challenge, as Bangladeshi entrepreneurs need better skills to tap into this market effectively.
Dr. Razzaque suggests that encouraging Chinese investors to set up manufacturing hubs in Bangladesh could be a strategic move. These factories could produce goods for export back to China and other countries, thus boosting Bangladesh’s export volumes.
PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to boost China-Bangladesh cooperation on bilateral, regional and global issues, says Ambassador
Al-Mamun Mridha, General Secretary of the Bangladesh China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCCI), echoed these sentiments. He mentioned that some Chinese investors are considering shifting their manufacturing industries to Bangladesh, recognizing it as a significant market for Chinese products.
To attract more Chinese investment, Bangladesh is organizing a trade and investment summit in Beijing during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s state visit from July 8 to 10. Mridha hopes that establishing Chinese factories in Bangladesh will eventually increase the volume of Bangladeshi exports to China.
Currently, Bangladesh imports around $24 billion annually from China, while its exports to China remain below $1 billion. To address this trade imbalance, Bangladesh plans to offer lucrative incentives to Chinese investors in sectors such as ceramics, leather, pharmaceuticals, electric cars, high-end garments, and household appliances.
Enhancing Bangladesh’s access to the Chinese market requires strategic diversification, quality improvements, and strong bilateral trade agreements. The upcoming summit and potential Chinese investments could pave the way for increased exports, ultimately benefiting Bangladesh’s economy.
Beijing announces PM Hasina's July 8-10 visit; it'll outline new blueprint for practical cooperation
China has announced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's official visit to China from July 8-10.
"At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh will pay an official visit to China from July 8 to 10," said the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning on Thursday.
In Dhaka, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen said the visit will "outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation" in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs.
During this visit, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will meet with Chinese leaders, sign a number of cooperation documents, and jointly announce major cooperation achievements, he said while talking to diplomatic correspondents at DCAB Talk.
PM’s China visit very important to expedite development: Hasan Mahmud
Through this visit, the two sides will achieve new breakthroughs in pragmatic cooperation, bringing more benefits to the people of both countries, said the Ambassador who temed the forthcoming visit a milestone in bilateral relations.
Mao Ning said this will be Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's first visit to China since her new term began and five years after her last visit to China.
During the visit, President Xi Jinping will meet with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Premier Li Qiang will hold a welcoming ceremony and have talks with her.
The two prime ministers will attend the signing ceremony of cooperation documents.
"Leaders of the two countries will have an in-depth exchange of views on how to deepen traditional friendship and expand mutually beneficial cooperation and on regional and international issues of mutual interest," said the Spokesperson.
Prime Minister Hasina will also attend the Summit on Trade, Business and Investment Opportunities between China and Bangladesh, she said.
Beijing said Bangladesh and China are good neighbours, good friends and good partners.
PM Hasina's forthcoming China visit will be a game-changer in Dhaka-Beijing ties: Ambassador Yao Wen
"We have similar visions for development and well-aligned development strategies. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 49 years ago, the two countries have treated each other with respect and equality, engaged in mutually beneficial cooperation, supported each other on issues concerning our respective core interests, and jointly advanced modernization," said the Spokesperson.
She said they have set a good example of friendship and cooperation between developing countries.
In recent years, with the strategic guidance and commitment of leaders of our two countries, the two sides have deepened Bangladesh-China strategic cooperative partnership, and had fruitful and practical cooperation in various fields.
"China stands ready to work with Bangladesh through this visit to carry forward the spirit of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, deepen political mutual trust, further synergize development strategies, advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, speed up implementing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and elevate our bilateral relations to a new level," said the Spokesperson.
Read more: Bangladesh to seek $7 billion fund from China to boost trade in business summit during PM's visit
Bangladesh holds the right to decide on Teesta project; China to accept any decision: Ambassador Yao
Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen today (July 04, 2024) said that it is solely Bangladesh’s sovereign right to decide on the Teesta project, and that this decision must be respected.
“Whatever project regarding the Teesta river is truly on Bangladesh’s side to make a decision. And the decision has to be respected,” he told diplomatic correspondents at a DCAB Talk, responding to a question on the Teesta river that Bangladesh shares with India.
Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) hosted the event at Jatiya Press Club ahead of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China next week. DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib and General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu also spoke at the event.
The Chinese ambassador stated that the visit will outline a new blueprint for practical cooperation in various fields and provide an opportunity for the two countries to coordinate their positions on regional and international affairs.
Ambassador Yao mentioned that China had made its proposal on Teesta following Bangladesh's request and is open to accepting any decision. “We are open. It’s purely on Bangladesh to decide what to do at the next stage.”
PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to boost China-Bangladesh cooperation on bilateral, regional and global issues, says Ambassador
India also expressed interest and announced that a technical team would soon visit Bangladesh to discuss the Teesta river conservation and management issues.
On June 25, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that the government would accept the financing proposal for the Teesta Masterplan Project based on what is most beneficial for the country.
“We have undertaken the Teesta project. China and India have given separate proposals (for financing it). We must accept the proposal which will be more beneficial for the people of our country,” she said at a press conference at her official residence, Ganabhaban, regarding the outcome of her recent visit to India.
Addressing a separate question, Ambassador Yao emphasized the importance of good relations between Bangladesh and its neighbouring countries.
“You know, it is a success of your national foreign policy. So, we want to see good relations. And also, we want our relations to be playing a positive role and be viewed positively by the other countries. So that is a win-win cooperation and will benefit all parties,” he said.
He dismissed any notion of tension between India and China regarding this project, stating, “I don't see any tension. We want to see the project start very soon. Since I know almost 30 million people need this project, we just want to see if it can be studied and completed very soon.”
Regarding the development of southern Bangladesh, the ambassador mentioned that it is a proposal from the Bangladesh side and that China could play a significant role in aiding this development.
“It is a good opportunity for China to get involved in the internal development of Bangladesh and we will have a very active and positive approach to that proposal,” he said.
Ambassador Yao also praised Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts in sheltering over 1 million Rohingya refugees.
“China is actively pursuing all parties involved in the Myanmar conflict to achieve a ceasefire and engage in dialogue, thus paving the way for the repatriation at an early date,” he said.
The envoy added that China is ready to support Bangladesh in the multilateral arena, jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promoting regional and international peace and stability.
PM’s upcoming China visit a reflection of maintaining balanced diplomacy: Foreign Minister
He highlighted cooperation opportunities in areas such as education, media, infrastructure, trade promotion, investment, agricultural imports from Bangladesh, and the digital economy during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming visit.
Ambassador Yao noted that the Bangladesh-China relationship is at its best and is embracing tremendous development opportunities.
“Next year, our two countries will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. How to further elevate bilateral relations, expand the scope of exchanges, tap the potential for cooperation, and make the relationship between our two countries and peoples better, deeper, and closer is a task that requires joint efforts from both sides,” he said.
He emphasized that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to China will be a milestone in bilateral relations, building on past achievements and forging ahead.
“This visit will surely inject vibrant impetus into bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, promoting new achievements in the strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Bangladesh, and elevating the relationship to a new height,” he said.
The envoy highlighted that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to China is highly anticipated by all. “This visit is expected to take the helm for the growth of the China-Bangladesh relationship for the next five years or even longer.”
During the visit, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will meet with Chinese leaders, sign a number of cooperation documents, and jointly announce major cooperation achievements. Through this visit, both sides will firmly support each other and further deepen communication at all levels, he mentioned.
Read more: Experts highlight Bangladesh’s need for China in its dev journey, strategic gains anticipated from PM Hasina’s upcoming visit