Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister Ikuina Akiko reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to continued support for Bangladesh during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser, Md Touhid Hossain, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this morning.
During their discussions, the Japanese Vice-Minister reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bangladesh’s interim government and its ongoing reform and nation-building efforts.
In response, the Foreign Adviser expressed gratitude for Japan’s significant contributions to Bangladesh’s socio-economic development since its independence. Akiko is currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh.
The Japanese Vice-Minister also reiterated Japan’s continued support for Bangladesh following its transition out of the Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
She emphasised the importance of an early conclusion to the proposed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to strengthen trade and investment ties between the two nations.
Acknowledging Bangladesh’s improving investment climate, Akiko noted that more than 310 Japanese companies are currently operating in the country, with expectations of further growth.
The Foreign Adviser reassured Japan of Bangladesh’s commitment to enhancing the investment environment, highlighting the proactive role of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) in facilitating foreign investment through its One-Stop Service (OSS).
Vice-Minister Akiko also stressed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region for regional peace and stability.
In response, the Foreign Adviser reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to upholding regional security and freedom of navigation for all parties.
He expressed appreciation for Japan’s continued support in seeking a durable resolution to the Rohingya crisis, particularly through the repatriation of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Thanking Japan for its humanitarian assistance, including support for the relocation of Rohingyas to Bhashan Char, the Foreign Adviser sought Japan’s backing in developing a roadmap for early repatriation. He also requested Japan’s assistance in organising a high-level conference on the Rohingya issue in Doha in collaboration with the United Nations.
The discussions also touched on mutual support and cooperation in election matters at international forums.
Concluding the meeting, the Foreign Adviser expressed his gratitude to the Japanese Vice-Minister for her visit and voiced hope that it would further strengthen the longstanding bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Japan.