Dhaka: Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi has commended the Bangladesh government’s strategic plan, which he believes will foster a conducive environment for investment and economic growth. On Monday, the Ambassador highlighted the plan’s focus on reconciliation, law and order restoration, and investment-driven economic growth as pivotal factors that will enhance investor sentiment.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Ambassador Shinichi expressed Japan’s appreciation for the peaceful elections held in February and the new administration’s strategic approach. He emphasized that these developments would attract foreign direct investments (FDIs) and accelerate economic growth. The remarks were made during a commemorative event for the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Bangladesh.
The event featured notable speakers, including Prime Minister’s Adviser Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Yutaro Mochida from the Economic Section at the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh, and Izuru Kobayashi from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, who addressed the gathering via an online message. Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Ashik Chowdhury also participated in the discussions.
The Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh and the Japan External Trade Organization Dhaka Office (JETRO Dhaka) hosted the event, with support from the Japanese Commerce and Industry Association in Dhaka (JCIAD/Shoo-Koo-Kai) and the Japan Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI).
Ambassador Shinichi reflected on the long-standing friendship between Bangladesh and Japan, emphasizing their strategic partnership built on trust and shared values. He addressed previous criticisms regarding the EPA, noting that such agreements should be viewed with a long-term perspective, similar to Japan’s agreements with ASEAN countries.
The Ambassador assured that the EPA with Bangladesh is highly concessionary and provides legal assurance for various stakeholders, aligning with the new administration’s growth-focused manifesto. He emphasized the significance of upholding free trade and highlighted the importance of sending a positive message to the global community.
Reflecting on the negotiation process, the Ambassador acknowledged the strength and confidence of Bangladeshi negotiators, who even considered the European Union as a future target for similar agreements. He expressed optimism about the potential for new ideas, collaborations, and success stories between Japan and Bangladesh, highlighting the key role of Asia’s development path in this endeavor.