Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held a bilateral summit, emphasising stronger trade and investment ties, energy security, technology and space research, infrastructure development, and greater cooperation on regional and international issues.
During the meeting, Tarique Rahman called on the Japanese government and private sector to play a more active role in Bangladesh’s economic development, technological advancement and industrialisation.
He said his government was working to transform Bangladesh into a hub for economic activity, technology and manufacturing. He noted that Bangladesh could become the world’s ninth-largest consumer economy by 2030, while its gross domestic product could exceed US$1 trillion by 2034.
The prime minister said Japan held a special place in the hearts of the people of Bangladesh. Japan was among the first countries to recognise Bangladesh following its independence in 1971 and has remained one of its key development partners, he said.
He added that relations between the two countries had been built on mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to peace, prosperity and stability.
Tarique Rahman recalled that his father, former president Ziaur Rahman, visited Japan twice, and acknowledged the contribution of his mother, former prime minister Khaleda Zia, to strengthening bilateral relations. He pledged to follow their legacy and take Bangladesh-Japan ties to a new level.
Energy security and cooperation
Ensuring Bangladesh’s energy security was a major focus of the talks. Tarique Rahman said reliable and affordable energy supplies were essential to sustaining the country’s economic growth.
Expressing gratitude for Japan’s longstanding cooperation, he referred to a recent emergency assistance loan of 50 billion Japanese yen under the Partnership for Power Asia initiative, aimed at strengthening energy security in Asia.
He called for greater Japanese investment and participation in Bangladesh’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, efficient power generation and renewable energy sectors.
Technology, artificial intelligence and space research
To support the development of a technology-driven economy, Tarique Rahman proposed establishing a Bangladesh-Japan Tech Park.
The initiative would connect Japanese companies, universities and investors with Bangladesh’s young talent, entrepreneurs and skilled technology professionals.
He proposed prioritising artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, robotics and electronics manufacturing at the planned technology park.
The prime minister also expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Japan in space science, satellite engineering and related technologies, drawing on Japan’s advanced capabilities in these fields.
Infrastructure, high-speed rail and transport
Tarique Rahman outlined plans to develop modern, integrated transport infrastructure to accelerate Bangladesh’s economic growth.
The proposals include a high-speed rail network connecting six major divisional cities and the construction of elevated roads across the country.
He sought Japan’s assistance in planning major infrastructure projects, providing technical support, attracting investment and arranging financing. He said Japan’s extensive experience in infrastructure development and modern transport systems could play an important role in advancing Bangladesh’s development ambitions.
Expanding trade and investment
Welcoming new investments by Japanese companies in Bangladesh, Tarique Rahman said his government was committed to creating a more investor-friendly environment.
He said the government would work to improve transparency, predictability and efficiency in regulatory systems, tax policies, customs clearance and fund transfers.
The prime minister also expressed hope that the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would be implemented soon. He said both countries needed to work together to ensure that the agreement’s benefits reached their people.
United Nations, the Indo-Pacific and the Rohingya crisis
On regional and international issues, Tarique Rahman highlighted the two countries’ shared commitment to multilateralism, international peace and respect for international law.
He thanked Japan for supporting Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman’s election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Tarique Rahman expressed his intention to work closely with Japan under the foreign minister’s presidency to strengthen multilateral cooperation and address global challenges.
He also reiterated the two countries’ shared vision of a free, open, peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific. He stressed the importance of cooperation to improve regional connectivity, maintain the free flow of trade and promote economic growth.
The prime minister expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and the resulting displacement of Rohingya people. He called for an end to all forms of violence, unhindered humanitarian assistance and dialogue among all relevant parties.
He praised Japan’s support for Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts for Rohingya forcibly displaced from Myanmar’s Rakhine State and sheltered in Bangladesh.
Tarique Rahman urged Japan to maintain active engagement with all parties to help establish peace and stability in Rakhine. He said a lasting solution to the crisis lay in Myanmar and stressed the need to ensure the Rohingya’s prompt, voluntary, safe and dignified repatriation to their homeland.
Proposal for a joint commission
In his closing remarks, Tarique Rahman said the summit would open a new chapter in Bangladesh-Japan relations while preserving their longstanding historical ties.
He expressed hope that the next phase of relations would be built on deeper trust, broader economic cooperation, stronger investment ties and a shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity.
The prime minister proposed establishing a ministerial-level joint commission to identify priority sectors, accelerate implementation and turn opportunities for cooperation into concrete initiatives.
He also emphasised the importance of closer communication and collaboration between the business communities of the two countries.
Saying the constructive discussions had strengthened their shared aspirations for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development, Tarique Rahman invited Sanae Takaichi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.
He expressed hope that the friendship between Bangladesh and Japan would continue to deepen and broaden through mutual trust, cooperation and shared prosperity.
