China’s Ambassador to Bangladesh attempted to calm concerns over the country’s troubled economic situation, by stating it was “much better” than what was happening in Sri Lanka.
"We foresee a promising outlook [in terms of relations with Bangladesh],” Li Jiming told the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka. “We are ready to work with Bangladesh for a brighter future."
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) started loan talks in Bangladesh on Wednesday, amidst fears over economic troubles that have led to growing pressure on its foreign reserves and fears over its ability to pay back international loans.
Li Jiming however told the audience that Chinese debt only played a small role in their repayments as a whole.
"To that extent I would say that the situation of Bangladesh is much better than Sri Lanka,” he said. “The total foreign debt level in Bangladesh is also much lower.
"According to the Euro-financial ministry it stands at 36% which is much lower than Sri Lanka."
See more of his remarks here.