On October 12, 2024, a Chinese naval fleet arrived in Bangladesh, marking the first visit by a foreign fleet since the interim government took over in Dhaka in early August. The fleet's visit, which includes the ships Qi Jiguang and Jing Gangshan, aims to strengthen the relationship between China and Bangladesh.

Yao Wen, China's Ambassador to Bangladesh, emphasised that China’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with Bangladesh remains firm, regardless of the political changes in the country. "No matter what changes have taken place in the domestic situation of Bangladesh, China’s commitment to develop China-Bangladesh relations remains unchanged," he said. He added that China looks forward to working with Bangladesh to deepen cooperation in various fields, especially through the Belt and Road Initiative.

Ambassador Yao Wen, along with the commanders of the Chinese naval fleet, met with key Bangladeshi officials, including Rear Admiral Masud Iqbal, Commander of the Chattogram Naval Area, Rear Admiral Mohammed Moinul Hassan, Commander of the Bangladesh Navy Fleet, and Rear Admiral S.M. Moniruzzaman, Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority. They discussed ways to enhance maritime and security cooperation between the two countries' naval forces.

China and Bangladesh are "comprehensive strategic cooperative partners," Yao Wen highlighted. This visit follows Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s trip to China in July, during which she returned early to address domestic student protests.

Bangladesh is currently constructing a dock in Chittagong with China's help, which has drawn attention given its potential to host submarines and warships. However, experts in May noted that India is "not overly concerned" due to the strong ties between Sheikh Hasina’s government and New Delhi.

The Chinese naval fleet, known as PLAN Task Group 83, will stay at Chittagong Port for four days. The visit will feature bilateral meetings, receptions, and public ship tours aimed at enhancing cooperation and mutual trust between the navies of China and Bangladesh, as well as contributing to building a "maritime community of shared future," according to the Chinese embassy.