Accra:Dhaka Bangladesh and Japan are preparing to sign more than four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to Japan. The visit, scheduled from October 26 to 29, is at the invitation of the Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and aims to issue a joint statement outlining the outcomes and future directions for bilateral cooperation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the proposed MoUs aim to enhance collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, human resource development, civil aviation, trade, environmental conservation, and local government modernization. The anticipated joint statement is expected to outline the results of the bilateral discussions and priorities for advancing the Bangladesh-Japan strategic partnership.
Preparations are being made for around eight cooperation documents, though the final number to be signed will depend on ongoing negotiations. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam expressed optimism that many of these agreements will be signed during the visit. The visit also includes high-level diplomatic engagements, with Prime Minister Rahman scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Takaichi and deliver a keynote address at the Japan-Bangladesh Economic Forum. Discussions will focus on implementing the Economic Partnership Agreement, expanding trade and investment, and addressing infrastructure costs and financing.
The visit also seeks to explore opportunities for cooperation in addressing regional and international peace and stability, including the energy crisis and the Rohingya crisis. The Bangladeshi delegation, which includes government officials and business leaders, aims to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Bangladesh and Japan through new cooperation instruments and expanded economic opportunities.