China was keen to help Bangladesh in tackling the COVID-19 outbreak and would continue its strategic cooperation in the development of the South Asian nation’s armed forces, according to BSS.

Chinese Defence Minister Gen Wei Fenghe made the remarks during a courtesy call on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid, president's Press Secretary Md Joynal Abedin told BSS after the meeting.

The visiting minister said military cooperation between the two countries was increasing gradually.

Welcoming Fenghe, the president said China is one of the most important development partners of Bangladesh, and relations between the two countries are gradually expanding in various fields, including trade and investment, Hamid said.

According to the Bangladesh president, the Chinese investment in various sectors, including infrastructure and communication, is playing a very significant role in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh.

Emphasising on strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations in tackling the pandemic, the president told the visiting minister that Bangladesh was keen to work with China.

"Bangladesh is also eager to take joint initiatives in research and production of coronavirus vaccine."

Hamid reiterated his call to China for playing a role in repatriating the forcibly displaced Rohingyas as it enjoyed very good relations with Myanmar.

He hoped China would take effective steps in this regard.