by Sun Nan, Naim-Ul-Karim
DHAKA, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- BRICS is set to bring further positive, stabilizing and constructive strength to the world with China playing a key role in global development affairs, said a Bangladeshi politician.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is committed to his "community with a shared future for mankind" concept, M Sadrul Ahmed Khan, a leader of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party, told Xinhua.
Describing Xi's BRICS statements as very timely and thoughtful, Khan said China plays a key role in helping other countries integrate with the global economy through the Belt and Road Initiative.
Xi's call for a more just and equitable world order and true multilateralism is a positive step toward world peace and security, he said, adding that Xi's speech has also demonstrated China's renewed commitment to sharing development opportunities with the rest of the world.
The relations between China and other BRICS countries are based on mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, he said.
"We look forward to deepening bilateral relations with China and strengthening cooperation in BRICS and other multilateral groups," he added.
The BRICS mechanism of five major emerging economies has traveled a glorious path since its inception 17 years ago, he noted.
"I believe that BRICS cooperation would add fresh impetus and inspiration to global efforts for peace and prosperity," he said.
The expansion of the BRICS mechanism would bring new development opportunities to Bangladesh and other developing countries, he added.
Khan advocated for granting Bangladesh's membership in the BRICS group, saying it would help to bolster trade between Bangladesh and countries in the region and beyond immensely.
Given Bangladesh's strategic location as a gateway between South Asia and Southeast Asia, he said BRICS has the opportunity to communicate and coordinate through Bangladesh with regional trade groups, such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.
By harnessing the momentum generated by the substantial infrastructure initiatives proposed by China, BRICS could play a pivotal role in supporting regional organizations across South and Southeast Asia, he added. ■
