Chinese commerce minister arrives today

Chinese Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng will arrive in the capital today on a two-day visit.

Gao is expected to call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and hold a meeting with Finance Minister AMA Muhith to discuss Chinese investment and support in commerce, agriculture, and industrial and infrastructure development in Bangladesh, said diplomatic sources.

A delegation led by Gao will hold a discussion with the Economic Relations Division regarding Chinese loan and assistance in some large projects in Bangladesh, officials said. A deal to construct a large convention centre at Purbachal with Chinese assistance is expected to be signed during his visit.

Signing of the free-trade agreement (FTA) and setting up of a Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) at Chittagong's Anwara will also be discussed.