Japan Reaffirms Strong Support for Chief Advisor’s Reform Efforts

Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru today reaffirmed Japan’s unwavering support for the reform initiatives and nation-building efforts of Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus. The assurance came during a meeting between the two leaders at the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo, as noted in a joint press release issued by both countries.

Highlighting the long-standing bilateral friendship since Bangladesh’s independence, both sides reiterated their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership. They also reaffirmed a shared vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), emphasizing peace, stability, and shared prosperity in the region. Discussions included regional and global issues, with both leaders pledging to uphold multilateralism, democracy, and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The meeting featured candid and comprehensive talks on bilateral relations and mutual interests. Prof Yunus expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support, particularly under the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative, including the Moheshkhali-Matarbari Integrated Infrastructure Development Initiative (MIDI).

The two sides welcomed the signing of Exchange of Notes for loans focused on economic reform, climate resilience, and infrastructure, including a dual gauge railway project. They also endorsed several agreements and memorandums on investment facilitation, energy, technology, and industrial collaboration to boost Japanese investment in Bangladesh.

Emphasizing the importance of finalizing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), both leaders instructed their negotiating teams to expedite talks for a mutually beneficial deal. They also underscored commitments to bolster political and security cooperation, including the early delivery of patrol boats under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA), and welcomed progress on a potential agreement for defense equipment and technology transfer.

Further, they agreed to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, especially through skilled workforce development and cultural engagement. Prof Yunus thanked Japan for its ongoing support in human resource development, including scholarship initiatives.

Prime Minister Ishiba praised Bangladesh’s humanitarian role in sheltering displaced persons from Myanmar and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to a peaceful resolution. Both leaders agreed that sustainable, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of displaced persons is essential for regional stability.

Prof Yunus concluded by expressing heartfelt thanks for Japan’s hospitality and extended an invitation to Prime Minister Ishiba to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time.