Opportunity to Take Bangladesh-Japan Relations to New Heights: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said there is an opportunity to take relations between Bangladesh and Japan to new heights. He made the remarks at a joint press conference following bilateral talks at the Kantei, the Japanese prime minister’s office in Tokyo, at around 11:45 am local time on Tuesday (October 27).

Mr. Rahman said Bangladesh-Japan relations were based on mutual respect and trust. He added that Bangladesh wanted Japan’s support in its next phase of development and progress. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, meanwhile, said Japan strongly supported Bangladesh. She added that Tokyo was interested in strengthening ties with Bangladesh, particularly in the context of the Bay of Bengal.

Before the bilateral summit, Ms. Takaichi formally welcomed Mr.  Rahman at her office. A well-dressed contingent of Japan’s armed forces accorded the Bangladesh prime minister a guard of honour. The national anthems of Japan and Bangladesh were played, and Mr. Rahman inspected the guard. The two prime ministers stood side by side during the ceremony.

After the reception, Mr. Rahman introduced members of his delegation to Ms. Takaichi, who, in turn, introduced members of her cabinet to the Bangladesh prime minister. Following the introductions, Rahman signed the visitors’ book at the entrance to the main hall. The two leaders then held a private meeting.