China has expressed interest in increasing flight frequencies on Beijing and Guangzhou routes from Bangladesh to strengthen air connectivity, tourism cooperation and economic engagement between the two countries.

The proposal emerged Tuesday when Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen met Civil Aviation and Tourism minister Afroza Khanam (Rita) at the Secretariat, with state minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat also present.

Around 12 flights currently operate weekly between Bangladesh and China. The Chinese side proposed adding three more flights, two to Guangzhou and one to Beijing.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, State Minister Millat said Chinese authorities have requested the additional frequencies and Bangladesh has asked them to submit a formal application. “We will examine the matter after receiving the application. This will enhance connectivity between the two countries and further strengthen tourism and investment cooperation”, he said.

The new flights would require Chinese submission of a written request, processing through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and approval by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh.

Ambassador Yao also reaffirmed China’s continued support for developing Bangladesh's tourism destinations, particularly Cox's Bazar. Both sides expressed interest in exploring joint initiatives under the Public-Private Partnership model for tourism and infrastructure development.

The meeting discussed a memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation signed during the interim government period, though implementation has yet to progress. Chinese investors are keen to conduct a feasibility study exploring how Cox’s Bazar could be developed into an international-standard tourist destination.

“They came to discuss that issue”, Millat said, adding that China had earlier proposed several projects under the PPP model without progress materialising. Bangladesh has asked the Chinese side to submit a detailed proposal for expanding Cox's Bazar tourism facilities.

“We told them to submit their proposal. We will examine it carefully. If it proves beneficial for Bangladesh, we will consider it”, the state minister added.