Dhaka: Bangladesh has garnered a favorable response from Japanese investors during Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’s recent visit to Japan, according to Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam. This development was discussed at a press briefing held at the Foreign Service Academy, highlighting the potential for increased Japanese investment in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Alam emphasized that the visit has elevated Bangladesh’s relationship with Japan, following a productive bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. A significant highlight of the visit includes Japan’s intention to hire 100,000 Bangladeshi workers over the next five years, prompting the formation of a task force by the Chief Adviser. Furthermore, approximately 3,000 Bangladeshi students have already enrolled in Japan’s educational institutions this semester, with expectations for this number to rise to 10,000 by the year’s end.
Alam pointed out that Japan is poised to become a significant destination for Bangladeshi manpower exports. He also detailed Japan’s commitment to provide US$ 1.063 billion in support to Bangladesh, including US$ 418 million for budgetary aid. The press briefing was attended by Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad.
During his Tokyo visit, Prof Yunus engaged in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Premier Shigeru Ishiba on Friday. The leaders agreed to finalize an Economic Partnership Agreement to strengthen economic and trade relations. Japan also pledged US$ 1.063 billion for Bangladesh’s budget support and railway development. Three key documents were signed, covering economic reform, climate resilience, and a significant railway project.
Additionally, at the ‘Bangladesh Business Seminar’, six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering economic and investment cooperation. Earlier, two MoUs were signed to enhance Bangladeshi manpower skills and facilitate their employment in Japan, addressing Japan’s labor shortage.
Prof Yunus also delivered a keynote speech at the 30th Nikkei Forum: Future of Asia, where he met former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to advocate for Bangladesh’s ASEAN membership bid. He was honored with an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Soka University for his contributions to social innovation and global development.
The Chief Adviser concluded his four-day official tour to Japan and returned to Dhaka last night.