Bay of Bengal: Hub for collaboration, development
Staff reporter :
Japan has emphasised the importance of mutual trust between Dhaka and Delhi to unlock the potential of regional connectivity for the benefit of all.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain highlighted the transformation of the Bay of Bengal into a hub of collaboration and sustainable development.
These observations were made during a seminar titled “Reconnecting the Bay of Bengal Region: Exploring the Convergence of Interests,” jointly organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE-JETRO), with sponsorship from the Japanese Embassy.
Addressing the seminar, Japan’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Iwama Kiminori, stated: “Japan is a friend to both Bangladesh and India.
We believe that a relationship based on mutual trust between the two countries is essential to unlocking the potential of regional connectivity.”
He also welcomed the recent Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) between Dhaka and Delhi amid strained relations, describing it as a vital step towards achieving regional stability.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain highlighted the strategic importance of the Bay of Bengal, urging nations to align their interests to avoid conflict.
“The Bay of Bengal is gaining increased attention from regional and global powers. While this underscores its growing significance, it also raises the stakes for cooperation and competition,” he remarked.
He called for fostering strategic partnerships, embracing a unified vision, and adopting innovative approaches to realise the region’s vast potential.
Discussing the challenges of Bangladesh’s graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category in 2026, Hossain stressed the need for trade and export diversification.
“Bangladesh must diversify its trade and exports to tackle the challenges ahead.
Advanced technologies are crucial for driving productivity and economic growth,” he noted.
He further urged Japan to provide technological and financial support to help Bangladesh navigate these challenges.
Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue, underlined the significance of political consultation, stating: “Without strong political relations, achieving progress will be difficult. Political consultation is vital.”