Japanese Minister Seeks Faster Progress on Key Projects in Meeting with PM Tarique

Japan’s Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Minister Suzuki Norikazu paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the National Parliament Building this afternoon (April 29). Leading a high-level Japanese delegation, Suzuki discussed a wide array of bilateral issues, ranging from infrastructure acceleration to the Rohingya crisis and labor migration.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister recalled the enduring friendship between the two nations, noting that Japan remains a vital partner in Bangladesh’s development journey. He emphasized that there is significant room to expand cooperation in agriculture, technology, and human resource development.

A primary focus of the discussion was the timely execution of major Japan-supported infrastructure projects. Minister Suzuki stressed the importance of completing the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, the expansion of the Metro Rail network, and the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in a speedy and smooth manner. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman responded positively, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring these milestones are reached without delay.

The Japanese delegation highlighted the need to effectively advance the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two countries to bolster trade. Minister Suzuki expressed Japan’s specific interest in increasing food product exports to Bangladesh and deepening technical cooperation in the agricultural sector.

In response, the Prime Minister urged Japan to increase its investment in Bangladesh’s burgeoning electronics and automobile sectors. He noted that the current administration is prioritizing job creation for the youth and identified these sectors as key areas for foreign direct investment.

Addressing the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian crisis, the Japanese side announced a grant of $17.5 million in assistance. While welcoming the aid, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman reiterated that the ultimate solution lies in the safe and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingyas to Myanmar.

On the subject of human resources, the Prime Minister expressed interest in sending skilled Bangladeshi workers to Japan, particularly in the healthcare and agricultural sectors. The Japanese delegation responded positively to this proposal, signaling a potential expansion of labor ties.

The meeting concluded with an official invitation from Japan for the Prime Minister to visit the country. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman expressed his hope to make an official visit to Japan at a convenient time to further cement the strategic partnership.

High-ranking officials present at the meeting included Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, along with PM’s advisers Nazrul Islam Khan and Humayun Kabir.