A delegation from the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by secretary-general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing, marking the first political engagement since the new government took office in Dhaka. During the meeting, Han highlighted the 'deep ties' between the two 'friendly neighbours' and expressed a desire to enhance cooperation, particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Alamgir described China as a 'trustworthy friend' and reaffirmed the BNP's commitment to the one-China principle, indicating a willingness to strengthen high-level exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation. This visit follows a period of strained relations under the previous interim government, which had pursued policies that distanced Bangladesh from India and sought closer ties with China and Pakistan. The BNP's approach towards China is being closely monitored, especially after the recent appointment of Khalilur Rahman as Foreign Minister, who is expected to visit Beijing soon to normalize ties with China.