Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for increased Japanese investment in Bangladesh’s agriculture, electronics and automobile sectors, while also expressing interest in exporting skilled manpower to Japan.
He made the remarks during a meeting with a high-level Japanese delegation led by Suzuki Norikazu, Agriculture Minister and Special Envoy of the Japan government, at his Sangsad Bhaban office.
The Prime Minister highlighted opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, particularly in Japan’s healthcare and agricultural sectors. He described Japan as a trusted friend and expressed hope for further strengthening bilateral relations.
Emphasizing employment generation as a key priority, he said the government is focused on creating opportunities for the country’s youth.
The Japanese delegation welcomed the proposals, according to Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony. On behalf of the Japanese government, Norikazu congratulated the Prime Minister on assuming office and expressed optimism about taking Bangladesh-Japan relations to new heights.
He stressed the importance of advancing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two countries and showed interest in increasing Japanese food exports to Bangladesh, along with expanding cooperation in agriculture and technology.
The delegation also emphasized the need for timely completion of major projects being implemented with Japanese support, including the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, the metro rail project, and the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. The Prime Minister assured continued cooperation in this regard.
During the meeting, Japan announced $17.5 million in assistance to address the Rohingya crisis. The Prime Minister, in response, stressed the importance of ensuring the safe return of Rohingya refugees.
The visiting delegation invited the Prime Minister to visit Japan, and he expressed interest in making an official visit at a convenient time.
Among those present were Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Adviser for Politics and Agriculture Nazrul Islam Khan, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Adviser for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, and Japan’s Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi.
