Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has extended an invitation to Japanese investors, businesses, and financial institutions to explore investment opportunities in Bangladesh. This invitation was made during a joint address in Tokyo following a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Rahman emphasised the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and Japan, stating that it is built on decades of friendship, trust, and mutual respect. He expressed optimism about taking this relationship to new heights.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and expand trade, commerce, and investment. They also focused on enhancing Japanese cooperation in key sectors and exchanged views on regional and international issues. The discussions were reported by the state-run news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sanstha (BSS).

In addition to his meeting with Prime Minister Takaichi, Rahman engaged with a high-level Japanese parliamentary delegation led by former Prime Minister Taro Aso. He also met with Masumi Kakinoki, Chairman of Marubeni Corporation, and Dr Akihiko Tanaka, President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Memorandums of Understanding and Key Projects

Bangladesh and Japan exchanged several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in critical areas during this visit. The JICA, which operates globally to support the socioeconomic development of developing regions, has been involved in numerous key projects in Bangladesh. These include the Joydebpur-Ishwardi Railway Dual Gauge Double Line Construction Project, the Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Development, the Jamuna Railway Bridge Construction Project, and the Matarbari Ultra Super Critical Coal-Fired Power Project.

Prime Minister Rahman discussed proposals for a Bangladesh-Japan Skills Partnership and a Technological Village and Innovation City with the JICA delegation. The meeting included senior officials such as Senior Vice-President Hara Shohei. Rahman highlighted his government’s initiatives aimed at creating a business-friendly environment for foreign investors, including legal reforms and measures to promote education and skills development.

During his discussions with Dr Akihiko Tanaka, Rahman emphasised cooperation in agricultural modernisation, agro-processing, and light engineering. These proposals were presented during a courtesy meeting held at Hotel Imperial, as reported by Deputy Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Shahadat Shadhin.

Prime Minister’s Official Visit and Future Engagements

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is on his third state visit since taking office on February 17, 2023. Previously, he has visited Malaysia and China, and he attended the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September. His current visit to Japan is expected to enhance bilateral ties and facilitate investment opportunities.

Pending issues between Bangladesh and India have delayed Rahman’s visit to the neighbouring country, which is considered Bangladesh’s most important partner. He is anticipated to make this visit by the end of the year. Rahman arrived in Tokyo on Monday for a four-day official trip at the invitation of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, marking a significant step in fostering economic collaboration between the two nations.

This visit underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen their economic ties and explore new avenues for cooperation, particularly in sectors that can drive mutual growth and development.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share