Two prime ministers pledge to enhance cooperation and partnership

Bangla Press Desk: Prime Minister Tareq Rahman and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have expressed a firm commitment to further strengthening the partnership between Bangladesh and Japan in the sectors of trade, infrastructure, deep-sea ports, and foreign investment.

They made these remarks during a joint press conference held in Tokyo on Tuesday (October 27), following a meeting between the two leaders at the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office.

The meeting commenced at 11:45 AM (Japan Standard Time) at the Prime Minister’s Office. Earlier, upon his arrival at 11:30 AM, the Bangladeshi Prime Minister was welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Prime Minister Tareq Rahman was also accorded a guard of honor. Following the guard of honor, the two leaders proceeded to hold a high-level meeting.

Prime Minister Tareq Rahman stated that Japan holds a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people. "Our friendship is built upon mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for peace, prosperity, and stability. As a peace-loving nation, Japan was among the first countries to recognize Bangladesh following our independence in 1971."

He noted that for over five decades, Japan has served as one of Bangladesh’s most valued development partners, contributing significantly to the nation’s socio-economic progress and infrastructure development. "We deeply cherish this enduring friendship."

He further added, "In today’s meeting, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and I held productive discussions on various bilateral, regional, and international issues. Reaffirming our long-standing friendship, we have expressed a firm commitment to further strengthen our partnership in sectors such as energy, ICT, trade, infrastructure, deep-sea ports, and foreign investment."

The Bangladeshi Prime Minister mentioned that during this visit, concrete steps have been taken to solidify bilateral relations, with several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed in key areas. A joint statement has been issued, outlining the outcomes and priorities derived from the discussions.

The partnership between Bangladesh and Japan is rooted in a friendship that has spanned several decades. Today, we have the opportunity to elevate our relationship to new heights.

He further stated, "I sincerely invite Japanese investors, business leaders, and financial institutions to explore the opportunities Bangladesh offers and to become partners in the next phase of our growth. We are committed to working with our Japanese partners to unlock productive investments, facilitate technology transfer, create employment, and pursue other mutually beneficial business opportunities."

Tarek Rahman remarked, "Together, we can build a more resilient and prosperous future for both our nations. Our ambition is clear: to transform the friendship between our two countries into a powerful engine for economic opportunity and partnership. Let us forge a partnership that serves our people today and leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come."

Meanwhile, with the aim of elevating bilateral relations to a higher level, Prime Minister Tarek Rahman and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have issued a joint declaration to strengthen mutual cooperation in ensuring peace and security for both nations.

During the meeting, a historic decision was reached to elevate the relationship between the two countries to the level of a "strategic partnership."

Sanae Takaichi noted that the relationship between the two nations has grown significantly stronger over the past 50 years.

Describing Japan as a trusted and long-term partner to Bangladesh, she added that Japan has consistently played a vital role in Bangladesh’s economic growth.

The Japanese Prime Minister expressed her hope that this elevation to a "strategic partnership" would open new horizons for the relationship between Bangladesh and Japan.

BP/SP