Staff Correspondent

Prime Minister's Adviser on Public Administration Md. Ismail Zabiullah has urged Chinese universities and research institutions to deepen collaboration with Bangladesh in artificial intelligence (AI), smart manufacturing, and digital governance.

Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the "Joint Training Programme 2026" at the BIISS Auditorium in Dhaka on Thursday Zabiullah also proposed establishing joint research centers, faculty exchange programs, and dual degree initiatives between the two nations.

Jointly organized by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and China's Fudan University, the four-day program focused on modern governance, digital administration, and bilateral relations.

Highlighting bilateral ties, Zabiullah noted that relations have evolved steadily since the tenure of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, reaching new heights following Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s recent visit to China. He added that bilateral trade now exceeds $25 billion annually, with Chinese firms playing a crucial role in Bangladesh's major infrastructure and digital projects.

"Since August 2024, Bangladesh has entered a new chapter of development," Zabiullah said, emphasizing that AI will drive transformative changes in public administration, healthcare, and public service delivery.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, BIISS Director General Major General ASM Ridwanur Rahman, and Fudan University Professor Zhang Ping were also present at the event, where certificates were distributed among 37 participants.