We begin in Beijing where Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has held talks with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The two discussed further cooperation between China and Bangladesh in infrastructure and tourism. CGTN's Liu Yang tells us more.

Bangladesh is an important cooperative partner of China in South Asia as well as an integral part of the Belt and Road framework. During a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and the Bangladeshi prime minister, the two sides committed to discussing a feasibility study for a free trade agreement, expanding imports of Bangladesh products that meet the needs of the Chinese market, promoting a balanced development of bilateral trade and facilitating investment and personnel exchanges.

In her interview with CGTN on Wednesday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said connectivity is key for the country's development.

LIU YANG BEIJING "We know China is investing heavily in Bangladeshi infrastructure. Apart from infrastructure, what other fields could see more cooperation between China and Bangladesh, especially under the Belt and Road framework?"

SHEIKH HASINA BANGLADESHI PRIME MINISTER "I always give importance of connectivity. Connectivity with all of our neighbouring country. China is really helping collaborating with us, many Chinese company are constructing many of our important project. As you know that we have signed the agreement, Bangladesh- China-India-Myanmar Economic Corridor that will open the door to increase our trade, business, communication, and for economic development, it is very important. And besides that we are planning and also developing the communication for trans-Asian highway and railway."

Premier Li said China would like to link the Belt and Road Initiative with Bangladesh's development strategy. He added that China seeks to further cooperate and jointly work for regional peace and development. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh is willing to promote cooperation in trade, investment, the service industry, and infrastructure building.

LIU YANGBEIJING "Many experts consider China as Bangladesh's largest trading partner and there are hopes for China to expand investment in Bangladesh, especially in infrastructure and tourism to help improve the country's trade and investment environment and people's livelihoods. LY, CGTN, Beijing."