Dhaka: Japan today pledged to continue its trade and development cooperation with Bangladesh and support the Interim Government of Professor Muhammad Yunus in its efforts to key transitions. Newly-appointed Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh, Saida Shinichi, made the pledge when he called on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ambassador Saida Shinichi expressed Japan’s commitment to not only maintain but also expand its business relations with Bangladesh. This declaration underscores Japan’s role as a significant strategic partner for Bangladesh, with Chief Adviser Prof Yunus highlighting the importance of further developing bilateral ties.
Japan is recognized as Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner, contributing significantly to the country’s socioeconomic progress. The bilateral trade volume between Japan and Bangladesh currently stands at approximately US$ 4 billion, with Japan ranking among Bangladesh’s top five export destinations. Over 350 Japanese companies operate in Bangladesh, reflecting the depth of economic engagement between the two nations.
Chief Adviser Yunus emphasized Bangladesh’s intent to seek business and trade opportunities with both eastern and western countries, including Japan, and members of SAARC and ASEAN. He expressed a vision for building amicable relations globally to foster business growth.
Ambassador Shinichi assured the continuation of major Japan-funded projects in Bangladesh, such as the Matarbari Deep Seaport, Matarbari Coal-Fired Power Plant, Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit (Metro Rail), and the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport 3rd Terminal. These projects are pivotal to Bangladesh’s infrastructure and economic development.
Prof Yunus also expressed gratitude for Japan’s ongoing support for Rohingya refugees and requested assistance in finding a sustainable solution for their safe and dignified repatriation to Myanmar’s Rakhine State.