China has urged Bangladesh to intensify collaboration on renewable energy, with Beijing pledging stronger financial backing and long term support for green projects as Dhaka looks to diversify its energy sources.

Speaking at the Fourth Bangladesh China Renewable Energy Forum in Dhaka on Monday, Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen said closer cooperation in clean energy could deliver concrete benefits for both countries and serve as a model for green development under the Belt and Road Initiative.

He said the time was right for Bangladesh to accelerate its shift toward renewable energy and for the two nations to work more closely in the sector.

According to the ambassador, expanded collaboration would not only support Bangladesh’s development priorities but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

Yao pointed to ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, including instability in the Middle East, which have cast doubt over the reliability of oil and gas supplies. While diplomatic efforts are underway, he noted that it remains unclear when energy markets will stabilize.

In this context, he said, countries like Bangladesh need long term and sustainable solutions to ensure energy security.

He acknowledged that the Bangladeshi government has taken steps to ease pressure on households, factories and businesses amid energy challenges, and said China has responded positively to requests for assistance.

However, he described these measures as temporary relief and stressed the need for a systematic transition to renewable energy sources, adding that China is ready to play a significant role in that process.

Looking ahead, Yao said Beijing is prepared to expand investment and financing through diversified channels. He pledged long term, stable and preferential financial support for major renewable energy projects in Bangladesh.

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood attended the forum as chief guest. Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun joined as special guest.

The event, held at a Dhaka hotel, was organized by the Centre for Policy Dialogue and moderated by its Research Director Dr Khondaker Golam Moazzem.

Over the years, the Bangladesh China Renewable Energy Forum has developed into a key platform for policy dialogue, bringing together government representatives, private sector leaders, development partners and international investors, particularly from China.

The forum aims to strengthen mutual understanding and support informed discussions as Bangladesh advances its renewable energy transition.