Tokyo:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for stronger cooperation with Japan in the fields of energy, technology, infrastructure, and investment. During a bilateral summit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Kantei in Tokyo, he proposed the establishment of a Bangladesh-Japan tech park and sought Japanese support for major transport projects to propel Bangladesh's economic transformation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the meeting also covered strategies to attract 1 trillion Japanese yen (US$6.3 billion) in private investment in Bangladesh's energy, infrastructure, and ICT sectors. Plans include dispatching a Japanese team to Bangladesh soon to assist in implementing these initiatives.
Prime Minister Rahman expressed optimism about Bangladesh becoming a regional hub for the economy, technology, and manufacturing. He highlighted the potential for the country to emerge as the world's ninth-largest consumer economy by 2030 and to exceed a $1 trillion GDP by 2034. The summit also focused on enhancing the long-standing friendship between Bangladesh and Japan, expanding trade and investment, and cooperating on regional and international issues.
Prime Minister Rahman acknowledged Japan's special role in Bangladesh's socio-economic progress, recalling its early recognition of Bangladesh's independence in 1971 and the contributions of his parents in strengthening bilateral relations. He emphasized the importance of reliable energy supplies for sustaining economic growth and advocated for greater Japanese investment in Bangladesh's energy infrastructure.
In the realm of technology, Rahman proposed a tech park to connect Japanese and Bangladeshi entities in sectors such as AI, cloud computing, and electronics manufacturing. He also outlined plans for a modern transport network, seeking Japan's assistance in infrastructure development.
On trade, Rahman welcomed Japanese investment and stressed the need for transparent and efficient regulatory processes. He expressed a commitment to implementing the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement to benefit both nations.
Regarding international issues, Rahman highlighted the countries' shared commitment to multilateralism and peace. He acknowledged Japan's support for Bangladesh's humanitarian efforts for Rohingya refugees and called for continued engagement to resolve the crisis.
Concluding the summit, Rahman proposed a ministerial-level joint commission to identify and accelerate cooperation opportunities. He invited Prime Minister Takaichi to visit Bangladesh, expressing hope for continued deepening of relations.