Dhaka: Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi on Monday emphasized Japan’s commitment to advancing key projects with the new government in Bangladesh, while maintaining the safety of Japanese nationals as a top priority.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Ambassador highlighted Japan’s role as Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner, contributing to various sectors. Key infrastructure projects, including the Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), the third terminal of Dhaka International Airport, and the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, are viewed as flagship initiatives under the ‘Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B)’ initiative.
In terms of security cooperation, Japan and Bangladesh have strengthened ties by signing an agreement for the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in February. Japan is planning to deliver patrol boats to the Bangladesh Navy through its Official Security Assistance (OSA) framework within the year.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Dhaka cafe attack, and Ambassador Shinichi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to protecting Japanese nationals in Bangladesh and ensuring the tragedy is remembered.
Ambassador Shinichi also reflected on the longstanding relationship between Bangladesh and Japan, noting the mutual trust and friendship that has characterized their ties since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972. The recent political transition in Bangladesh, following the “political uprising” in the summer of 2024, has not hindered the advancement of bilateral cooperation.
The inauguration of the new BNP government in February has invigorated bilateral relations, with Japanese officials, including Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Norikazu Suzuki, visiting Dhaka to strengthen cooperation under the ‘Strategic Partnership.’
The Japan-Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), signed in February, serves as a crucial framework for enhancing economic ties. Japanese companies continue to operate in Bangladesh, supported by the Embassy of Japan’s efforts to improve the investment environment.
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations have also expanded, with a growing interest in the Japanese language and culture among Bangladeshis. Japan remains committed to promoting these exchanges and supporting Bangladesh’s role in the ‘Updated FOIP (Free and Open Indo-Pacific)’ vision.
Japan views Bangladesh as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region and is committed to fostering cooperation to enhance regional development.