China eyes Bangladesh\`s Mongla seaport operations management

China is actively considering Bangladesh's appeal for funding modernization of the Mongla Seaport but wants operations management of the port as it has all potentiality to become an international shipping hub.

Bangladeshi officials say China awaits response from Bangladesh on proposed 'integrated approach to implementation_ operation_ maintenance and management of the project'.

Bangladesh sent a proposal to Beijing in April 2019 through a preliminary loan application for funding the 'Expansion and modernisation of Mongla Port facilities'.

The estimated cost of the project is $350 million.

A concerned official said_ China had recently carried out evaluation of the project and is very much eager and positive about the project.

Chinese authorities articulated interest in the integrated approach to the construction_ implementation_ maintenance and management of the port project_ authentic sources said.

Although shipping ministry is yet to get any feedback on the port-uplift venture_ officials say.

The loan application is under active consideration by China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA)_ the ODA arm and soft-loan window of the Chinese government_ according to the officials.

In a recent meeting with CIDCA officials_ Bangladesh has highlighted importance of the port- modernisation project. Being the second-largest port of the country_ the Mongla Port stands in a vital position and can support international and regional trade.

Following construction of many mega-projects particularly in Bangladesh's southern part_ especially the long-awaited Padma Bridge_ the port's importance has increased manifold with vistas of opportunities in trade and connectivity opening up.