‘Dhaka pledges stronger strategic ties with Tokyo’

Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain has said Bangladesh and Japan share a long-standing friendship based on mutual trust, shared aspirations and steady progress.

Describing Japan as one of Bangladesh’s most reliable development partners, he noted that bilateral relations have grown stronger over the decades through mutual respect and cooperation. He made the remarks at a reception hosted by the Japan Embassy in Dhaka marking the birthday of the Emperor of Japan, according to a handout issued Wednesday.

“We are firmly committed to further strengthening Bangladesh’s strategic partnership with Japan for shared peace, prosperity and stability,” the minister said. Highlighting Bangladesh’s recent democratic transition and successful national elections, Zahid Hossain said the government is prioritising institutional strengthening, good governance, economic stability, investment promotion, job creation, and ensuring transparency and accountability.

He added that the government has introduced the ‘Family Card’ programme to expand social security and plans to launch an ‘Agricultural Card’ to support farmers.

The minister also appreciated Japan’s continued support in areas such as human resource and skills development.

Referring to strong economic ties, he said Japan, as Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner, has made significant contributions to infrastructure, energy and connectivity sectors.

He termed the recently signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) a major milestone in bilateral relations.
Zahid Hossain also thanked Japan for its humanitarian assistance to displaced Rohingyas, stressing that Japan’s engagement is crucial for a lasting solution to the crisis.
Japan Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi and diplomats from various countries attended the event.