Dhaka: Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Professor Asif Nazrul described Japan as a time-tested friend of Bangladesh, stating that Japan was among the first countries to recognize Bangladesh within two months of its independence. He emphasized that the strong relations between Bangladesh and Japan serve as a unique example in the international arena.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Nazrul made these remarks during a meeting with a nine-member team of the Japanese Parliamentary League on ILO activities at the Ministry of Expatriates Welfare and Overseas Employment. The team was led by Michihiro Ishibashi, Secretary General of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and member of the House of Representatives. The discussions focused on bilateral interests, particularly the dispatch of skilled workers to Japan.
Professor Nazrul recalled Japan's significant contributions to Bangladesh's socio-economic development, noting that Japan was the first among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries to recognize Bangladesh on February 10, 1972. He mentioned that at least one million Bangladeshi workers find employment abroad yearly, contributing substantially to the country's economic development.
Under the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh is committed to ensuring safe, orderly, and regular migration. Professor Nazrul stated that Bangladeshi workers are being prepared to meet Japanese labor market needs through skill development, language training, and cultural preparation. He also stressed the importance of appointing Japanese trainers through JICA to provide advanced training in the existing Technical Training Centers (TTCs) in Bangladesh.
During the meeting, Zia Hassan, Policy Adviser of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, delivered the keynote speech.