Japan has reiterated its unwavering support for Bangladesh and announced key initiatives to bolster bilateral ties, including the provision of patrol vessels for coastal patrolling and equipment to monitor air pollution.
The announcement came during a courtesy call by the newly appointed Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi, with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reads a press release.
The meeting underscored Japan’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Bangladesh amid ongoing economic and humanitarian challenges.
Ambassador Shinichi highlighted Japan’s political support for Bangladesh’s interim government, which will also be officially conveyed during an upcoming visit by Japan’s Parliamentary Vice Minister.
He expressed satisfaction over the progress of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) negotiations and emphasised the importance of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) and regular high-level exchanges between the two nations.
Among the key announcements, Japan will provide five patrol vessels to enhance coastal patrolling and will soon sign an agreement to supply air pollution monitoring equipment to Bangladesh. Additionally, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief is scheduled to visit Bangladesh in March, reflecting Japan’s ongoing development cooperation.
The Foreign Adviser thanked Japan for its consistent support, particularly as Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner. He also acknowledged Japan’s significant contributions to major development initiatives and its humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees, including those relocated to Bhashan Char.
As the Rohingya crisis continues to strain Bangladesh, the Foreign Adviser sought Japan’s backing for an upcoming conference on the crisis, to be held in Doha in collaboration with the United Nations.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in various international fora and ensuring steady progress in mutual development goals.
