Bangladesh, Jica agree to deepen cooperation in transport infrastructure
Japan International Cooperation Agency President Dr Tanaka Akihiko met Minister in charge of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Shipping Sheikh Robiul Alam, Member of Parliament, in Dhaka today to discuss expanding Japan's cooperation in Bangladesh's transport infrastructure sector and reviewing progress on ongoing development projects.
The meeting was held at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Division on Thursday, 2 July 2026.
During the meeting, both sides discussed ongoing development activities in Bangladesh's transport sector, including metro rail projects, road and bridge infrastructure, expressway construction, technical cooperation, capacity building and the scope for further expanding Jica's support in future development projects.
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State Minister for the Road Transport and Highways Division and the Ministry of Railways Habibur Rashid, Member of Parliament, was present at the meeting.
Ministry of Railways Secretary Md Fahimul Islam, Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Dr Mohammad Ziaul Hoque, Ministry of Shipping Secretary Zakaria, and senior officials of Jica also attended the meeting.
Speaking at the meeting, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam said Jica has long been an important development partner in modernising Bangladesh's transport infrastructure.
He said Japan's cooperation in metro rail, road, bridge and other strategic infrastructure projects has made an important contribution to Bangladesh's economic growth and sustainable development. He expressed hope that the cooperation would expand further in the coming years.
The minister also said the present government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tareq Rahman, is working to build a safe, modern, sustainable and integrated transport system. He added that cooperation from international development partners is crucial to implementing projects aimed at improving public transport, introducing smart transport systems and strengthening regional connectivity.
During the meeting, Jica President Dr Tanaka Akihiko assured Bangladesh of Japan's continued cooperation in infrastructure development.
He said Jica would remain a reliable partner in Bangladesh's development journey and continue its support for the successful implementation of ongoing projects as well as cooperation in new potential sectors.
Both sides agreed to further strengthen mutual cooperation in the successful implementation of metro rail projects, the integrated development of the Matarbari region, the modernisation of road connectivity, the expansion of technology and technical assistance, and future infrastructure development projects.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan.
