China Eastern Airlines will soon operate direct flights from Chittagong, Bangladesh, to Kunming, China, in a major move aimed at boosting cross-border healthcare access and connectivity. This development coincides with the announcement of USD 2.1 billion in Chinese investments, loans, and grants to Bangladesh during Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’s landmark visit to China.
Key Highlights:
Direct Flights to Support Medical Travel
The new Chittagong–Kunming flight route, officials say, is being introduced primarily to support Bangladeshis seeking medical treatment in China. Kunming has already dedicated four hospitals with reserved floors for Bangladeshi patients.
“The treatment fees are modest. A patient from Bangladesh pays the same fees as local Chinese people,” said Nazmul Islam, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to China.
This initiative is expected to reduce travel time and airfare costs, which until now have acted as major barriers for Bangladeshi patients. Earlier in February, several Bangladeshis traveled to Kunming for treatment and praised the quality of care but noted the high ticket prices as a challenge.
Journalist Delegation to Visit Kunming in April
To further promote the initiative, a large delegation of Bangladeshi journalists will visit Kunming in April to inspect healthcare facilities and report on the treatment experience. This visit aims to build public trust and awareness around medical travel opportunities to China.
Civil Aviation Efforts to Reduce Dhaka-Kunming Ticket Prices
In parallel, Bangladesh’s civil aviation authorities in Dhaka are working to bring down ticket prices on the Dhaka–Kunming route, reinforcing accessibility for a wider population. This aligns with the broader bilateral goal of deepening China-Bangladesh cooperation across sectors.
$2.1 Billion in Investments and Grants from China
The announcement of new flights comes as Bangladesh secures $2.1 billion in Chinese investment pledges, loans, and grants. The commitment was formalized during Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ four-day state visit to China, where he met Chinese officials and business leaders.
Key highlights include:
- $1 billion investment from 30 Chinese companies in the exclusive Chinese Industrial Economic Zone
- $400 million loan for the Mongla Port modernization project
- $350 million for the China Industrial Economic Zone
- $150 million as technical assistance
- Remaining funds in grants and soft loans
“It is a milestone visit,” said Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, noting the deepening strategic partnership.
Strengthening Healthcare and Economic Ties
The launch of China Eastern Airlines’ Chittagong-Kunming flights marks a significant step in making affordable and quality healthcare in China accessible to Bangladeshis. Alongside a robust investment package totaling $2.1 billion, this initiative highlights the strengthening of bilateral relations between Dhaka and Beijing.
As new transport links, industrial cooperation, and healthcare collaborations take shape, this partnership is set to redefine China-Bangladesh engagement in the years ahead.
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