China is ready to send a medical expert team to help with Bangladesh's response efforts to fight COVID-19 outbreak.

The message was conveyed to Dhaka on Tuesday when State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi talked with Foreign Minister A K Abdul Momen.

A press release issued by the Chinese embassy said, “As the situation continues to evolve in Bangladesh, we are ready to provide more assist`ance, share our information and experience without any reservation, and send a medical expert team to help with Bangladesh's response efforts.”

In response, Momen said Bangladesh highly appreciates China's effective response to COVID-19, which has set a great example for the rest of the world.

Thanking China for the timely assistance and hoped to receive further support from China, Momen said,  “Having China's valuable support in such difficult times once again proves that China is the most reliable friend and partner of Bangladesh.”

In reply, Wang expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the government and people of Bangladesh will defeat the virus and the friendship between China and Bangladesh will be further cemented in the course of joint fight against COVID-19.

Wang expressed hope that the Bangladeshi government will continue to do what is necessary to look after the Chinese nationals there and protect their safety and health.

The Chinese minister underscored that as a responsible major country, China will stand firmly with Bangladesh and other neighboring countries to battle the virus together, counter its impact on the global economy, maintain normal international industrial cooperation the best way we can, and safeguard the safety and well-being of people in our regions and the wider world.

The two sides also exchanged views on the issue of the Rakhine State. Bangladesh hopes that the return of displaced persons will start as soon as possible. China is ready to continue to play a mediating role.