Japan assures continuation of Tokyo-funded big projects in Bangladesh

Japan has promised to continue its of ongoing Japan-funded big projects, particularly Matarbari Deep Seaport, Matarbari Coal-Fired Power Plant, Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit (Metro Rail), and Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport 3rd Terminal.

Newly-appointed Japanese ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi made the promise when he called on Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna today (30 January), said a press release from the chief adviser's press wing.

"We are determined to continue our business with Bangladesh. Not only continue but expand," Ambassador Saida Shinichi told the chief adviser.

Chief Adviser Professor Yunus said Japan is a very important strategic partner for Bangladesh and that his government was looking to develop the relationship further.

"We are really proud of our relationship with Japan, which is one of our closest friends and a major development partner," he said.

Japan is the single largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh, which contributed to Bangladesh's socio-economic advancement greatly over the years.

The bilateral trade between two countries now stands at around $4 billion, with Japan being one of Bangladesh's top five export destinations.

More than 350 Japanese companies are currently operating in Bangladesh.

The chief adviser said Bangladesh is now looking for business and trade opportunities with both eastern and western countries, including Japan and members of SAARC and ASEAN members. 

"We are trying to build friendly relations with both the west and the east… it's time to do business," he said.

The chief adviser thanked Japan for its continued support for Rohingyas and sought support to find a durable solution for the safe, sustainable, and dignified return of the Rohingyas to the Rakhine State of Myanmar.