PM’s Japan Visit: 1 Agreement and 4 MoUs Signed at Govt Level, 17 MoUs Executed in Private Sector

Bangladesh and Japan have signed one agreement, four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), and two grant agreements, alongside 17 MoUs executed between private sector entities of both nations during PM Tarique Rahman’s official visit to Japan. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir disclosed these details on Wednesday night, October 28, local time, during a press briefing held at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Tokyo.

Addressing the media, the State Minister stated that the PM’s visit has reinforced bilateral cooperation and further strengthened the relationship between the two nations. He added that the visit marks the emergence of a ‘New Bangladesh’ on the global stage.

Highlighting the major outcomes, he noted that the respective ministries of both countries will work jointly to combat climate change. To enhance Bangladesh’s coastal security capabilities, a grant agreement worth 2.12 billion Japanese Yen (approximately USD 13.5 million) was signed for the supply of a patrol vessel.

Mr. Humayun Kabir further mentioned a commitment to a Yen loan project amounting to nearly USD 108 million aimed at improving Bangladesh’s investment climate. Additionally, the Japanese government pledged assistance of 13.68 billion Yen (approximately USD 194.7 million) to support governance and development initiatives at the upazila level.

Regarding private sector engagement, the State Minister highlighted that 17 MoUs and various joint initiatives were established among enterprises from both countries. These arrangements are expected to open potential investment opportunities of around USD 6 billion across various sectors in Bangladesh over the next five years, which could generate employment for nearly 200,000 people.

The press conference also outlined the PM’s infrastructure development vision, referencing commitments toward constructing elevated expressways across various divisions and expanding the rail network in six divisions. Atiqur Rahman Remon, Additional Press Secretary to the PM, and Shahadat Hossain Swadhin, Deputy Press Secretary, were also present at the briefing.