Chinese people in Bangladesh
Regions with significant populations | |
---|---|
Dhaka • Chittagong • Sylhet • Cox's Bazar | |
Languages | |
Chinese • Bengali • English • Hakka • Varieties of Chinese | |
Religion | |
Majority: Buddhism • Taoism • Confucianism • Chinese Folk Religions Minority: Islam • Christianity • Hinduism |
There are over a thousand Chinese citizens and nationals who live in Bangladesh.[1] Both China and Bangladesh lie in close geographical proximity, separated only by the narrow Siliguri Corridor of India and immigration is common between the two countries. Most Chinese expatriates are based in Dhaka and Chittagong, and consist largely of diplomats or employees of foreign companies. Chinese food enjoys large popularity and is widespread in Bangladesh, with there even being Bangladeshi-style Chinese cuisine.[1]
In November 2010, a medical ship of the Chinese Navy, "Peace Ark," docked in Chittagong; among the ship's mission was to provide humanitarian medical services to government officials, armed forces personnel, citizens and Chinese people stationed in Bangladesh and carry out medical exchange.[2] The Chinese Vice President, Xi Jinping, visited the country in 2010 and met with representatives of the local Chinese community.[3] Chinese women in Dhaka have a reputation for running popular beauty parlours.[4]
Social and cultural events such as the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Chinese New Year are celebrated quite often by those who cannot go home.[5][6] There is also a local (unofficial) organisation, Bangladesh-China People's Friendship Association (BCPFA), which has been active since 1986.
See also
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