Japan Still a Trusted Ally of Bangladesh, Says Afroza

Bangla Press Desk: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam on Sunday described Japan as a longstanding and trusted friend of Bangladesh, acknowledging its steadfast support during difficult times and significant contribution to the country's development.

"Japan is an old and trusted friend of Bangladesh. Japan has stood by Bangladesh during difficult times," she said while addressing the "Japan-Bangladesh Business Women Conference" as the chief guest at a city hotel this evening.

Afroza said Bangladesh and Japan are working together towards mutual prosperity, noting Tokyo's significant contribution to the country's infrastructure development and technological advancement.

The conference brought together representatives from Bangladesh and Japan to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral trade and investment, promoting women entrepreneurship and strengthening mutual cooperation.

Highlighting the importance of women's empowerment in Bangladesh's development, the minister recalled the role of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia in expanding educational opportunities for women.

She said Khaleda Zia had set a landmark example in advancing women's education and empowerment by introducing free secondary education for girls.

"Following the example set by Begum Khaleda Zia, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government has made education free for women up to the degree level," Afroza said.The minister said the government is working to build a prosperous, inclusive and developed Bangladesh by ensuring greater access to education and strengthening women's economic empowerment.

The Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, the Chief Representative of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), leaders of the Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, businesspeople and women entrepreneurs, among others, attended the conference.

Participants discussed ways to further expand Bangladesh-Japan trade and investment, develop women entrepreneurship and deepen cooperation between the two countries.