Addressing trade imbalances, attracting Chinese investments in Bangladesh and Rohingya issue will be on the agenda during Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain's upcoming bilateral visit to China from January 20 to 24, according to a foreign ministry's spokesperson.

"This year marks the golden jubilee of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and China.

The adviser's visit to China is therefore of significant importance," said spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam during a weekly media briefing at the foreign ministry yesterday.

The foreign adviser is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on January 21.

Additionally, official sources have indicated that Touhid will also engage with senior officials of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and is likely to visit Shanghai as part of the trip.

During the bilateral meetings, key issues such as agriculture, education, trade, and the progress of the Rohingya issue will be discussed prominently.

Highlighting the economic aspect of the visit, Alam noted that trade between Bangladesh and China currently stands at USD 25 billion, though the balance heavily favours China.

"The adviser's trip aims to address trade imbalances and explore avenues for increased Chinese investment in Bangladesh," he said, adding that the full agenda for the visit is still being finalised.

Alam said the relationship between Bangladesh and China has evolved into a "Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership," reflecting its multifaceted nature.

"This upcoming visit, as the first bilateral trip by the adviser following the formation of Bangladesh's interim government in August, presents a valuable opportunity to further strengthen and deepen the bilateral ties between the two nations," said the spokesperson.

Bangladesh and China are set to celebrate the golden jubilee of their diplomatic relations in 2025, and both countries have undertaken various programs to mark the milestone.

"The visit will also provide an opportunity to outline the future roadmap for Bangladesh-China bilateral relations, focusing on enhancing economic cooperation, expanding trade and investment, and reviewing progress in ongoing collaborations," he added.

The foreign adviser is also expected to deliver speeches at the "China Institute of International Studies" and the "Shanghai Institute of International Studies" during the visit.

Besides, he will meet business representatives in Shanghai to encourage increased Chinese investments in Bangladesh, Alam said.