Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for Japan's assistance in diversifying Bangladesh's exports, expressing optimism that enhanced economic relations will create new opportunities for trade and investment between the two nations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister made this request during a meeting with Susumu Kataoka, President of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), held at 1145 am local time. The discussions highlighted increasing Japanese investments in Bangladesh, export diversification, skill development, and strengthening of bilateral trade and economic partnerships.
Prime Minister Rahman acknowledged JETRO's role in encouraging Japanese investments in Bangladesh, stating that new opportunities for such investments are emerging. He emphasized Bangladesh's anticipation of Japanese investments in sectors such as manufacturing, information and communication technology (ICT), automobiles, renewable energy, and agro-processing within the country's special economic zones.
Both parties concurred that the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would significantly enhance trade and investment relations. The Prime Minister also urged for Japanese cooperation in skills development programs and the establishment of Japanese language training centers in Bangladesh to facilitate employment opportunities in Japan and reinforce the long-term economic partnership.
JETRO President Susumu Kataoka regarded Bangladesh as a promising destination for investment, noting its economic growth and strategic location. He mentioned that various initiatives by the Bangladeshi government under Prime Minister Rahman have piqued the interest of Japanese companies in business and investment prospects in the country.
Subsequent to the meeting, Prime Minister Rahman attended a luncheon hosted by Kataoka, during which they explored further avenues for mutual cooperation and economic relations. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to the JETRO president to visit Bangladesh at his convenience.
The meeting was attended by several Bangladeshi officials, including Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, and others from the Prime Minister’s office and related sectors.