Japan reiterates its firm support for Bangladesh's interim government

Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi has reaffirmed Japan’s strong support for Bangladesh's interim government and highlighted an upcoming parliamentary vice minister-level visit that will formally convey Japan’s message of political backing.

During a meeting with Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, Ambassador Shinichi underscored Japan’s commitment to supporting the interim government’s reform initiatives and strengthening the Strategic Partnership between the two countries, UNB reports. He also emphasized Japan's dedication to enhancing bilateral cooperation across a range of areas.

The discussion covered a wide array of topics, including boosting economic ties, advancing political and security collaboration, addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis, and other bilateral initiatives. Both sides agreed on the importance of holding Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) soon and maintaining regular high-level exchanges.

The ambassador expressed satisfaction with progress in the negotiations for the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Japan and Bangladesh. He also informed the adviser that the head of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is scheduled to visit Bangladesh in March.

As part of Japan’s support, Ambassador Shinichi announced the provision of five patrol vessels to strengthen Bangladesh’s coastal security and confirmed Japan’s readiness to sign an agreement for supplying air pollution monitoring equipment.

In response, the foreign affairs adviser thanked Japan for its unwavering support for the interim government and its significant role as Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner. He acknowledged Japan’s contributions to major development projects and assured the security of Japanese investments in Bangladesh.

The adviser also expressed appreciation for Japan’s humanitarian efforts to address the Rohingya crisis, including aid for Rohingyas relocated to Bhashan Char. He highlighted the increasing pressures on Bangladesh due to developments in Myanmar’s Rakhine State and sought Japan’s support for an upcoming conference on the Rohingya crisis, co-organized with the United Nations in Doha.

Both sides discussed collaboration on election-related issues in international forums and expressed a mutual desire to further strengthen bilateral relations.

The foreign affairs adviser wished Ambassador Shinichi a successful tenure in Bangladesh and expressed hope that their partnership would achieve new milestones during his time in office.