JICA support sought to build safe transport system

Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam said on Thursday that Bangladesh is committed to building a safe, modern, sustainable and integrated transport system under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, stressing that continued support from international development partners — particularly the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) — remains crucial to achieving that goal.

“The present government is implementing a wide range of projects to develop public transport, introduce smart transportation systems and strengthen regional connectivity. JICA has long been a trusted development partner, and we hope this cooperation will expand further in the years ahead,” the minister said.

He made the remarks when JICA President Dr Tanaka Akihiko paid a courtesy call on him at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Division in Dhaka on Thursday.

Metro rail, expressways and technical cooperation on agenda
The meeting focused on expanding Japanese cooperation in Bangladesh’s transport infrastructure development and reviewed progress on ongoing projects.

Discussions covered the Mass Rapid Transit (Metro Rail) project, road and bridge infrastructure, expressway construction, technical cooperation, capacity building and prospects for future development initiatives with JICA’s support, according to a ministry press release.

Shaikh Rabiul Alam said Japan’s assistance — particularly in implementing the metro rail, roads, bridges and other strategic infrastructure projects — has made a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s economic growth and sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that the longstanding partnership between Bangladesh and Japan would continue to deepen through enhanced cooperation in the transport sector.

JICA reaffirms commitment
JICA President Dr Tanaka Akihiko reaffirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s infrastructure development. He said JICA would remain a reliable development partner for Bangladesh, extending cooperation not only for the successful implementation of ongoing projects but also for exploring new areas of collaboration with strong development potential.

The meeting was attended by State Minister for the Road Transport and Highways Division and the Ministry of Railways Habibur Rashid, MP; Railways Secretary Md Fahimul Islam; Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Dr Mohammad Ziaul Haque; Shipping Secretary Zakaria; and senior JICA officials.

Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the successful implementation of the metro rail project, the integrated development of the Matarbari region, modernisation of the road transport network, expansion of technology transfer and technical assistance, and future infrastructure development projects.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan.