Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for enhancing the multifaceted relationship between Bangladesh and Japan to foster a stronger and more prosperous future. He highlighted the potential for significant Japanese investments, job creation, and expanded cooperation in energy, technology, and infrastructure.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman made these remarks in a Facebook post following a summit meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. He emphasized the importance of his ongoing visit to Japan in strengthening the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.
During the summit, both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to democracy, the rule of law, economic development, and a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Discussions focused on translating this partnership into tangible opportunities for the people of Bangladesh.
The two sides explored the possibility of emergency financial assistance amounting to 50 billion Japanese yen, equivalent to approximately US$320 million, under Japan's Partnership for Power Asia initiative to enhance Bangladesh's energy security. Additionally, they discussed the potential for up to one trillion Japanese yen, or around US$6.3 billion, in Japanese private-sector investment in Bangladesh over the next five years, potentially creating around 200,000 jobs.
The Prime Minister also proposed the establishment of a Bangladesh-Japan Tech Park to advance collaboration in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, robotics, electronics manufacturing, and advanced technologies. Cooperation in space science, satellite engineering, and modern transport infrastructure, including high-speed rail connectivity, was also discussed.
In another major area of cooperation, the two countries agreed to advance the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative under a new framework for shared prosperity. This renewed cooperation will focus on integrated development of energy, deep-sea ports, industrial infrastructure, technology, and regional connectivity.
Discussions also covered the early implementation of the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), stronger institutional cooperation, and the proposed establishment of a ministerial-level joint commission to turn shared priorities into concrete results. Prime Minister Rahman expressed appreciation for Japan's ongoing humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya population and called for continued engagement to ensure their voluntary, safe, and dignified return to Myanmar.
Recalling historical bonds, Tarique Rahman mentioned how his father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, and his late mother, Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, had significantly contributed to strengthening Bangladesh-Japan relations. He expressed gratitude for Japan's friendship, generosity, and longstanding support.
The Prime Minister's four-day official visit, from October 26 to 29, is focused on strengthening the strategic partnership, attracting investment, expanding trade, and accelerating development cooperation. During the visit, Rahman is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Forum and meet with Japanese business leaders to identify further cooperation opportunities.