During a recent meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser, Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister Ikuina Akiko emphasized the importance of finalizing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) at the earliest to bolster trade and investment between the two nations.
Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister Ikuina Akiko has urged for the expedited completion of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Bangladesh and Japan to foster trade and investment ties. This was discussed during her meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday.
Akiko praised Bangladesh’s favorable investment climate, noting that despite recent political shifts, Japanese businesses and investments have remained committed to operations in the country.
The Japanese Vice-Minister, currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh, expressed Japan’s ongoing support for Bangladesh’s socio-economic initiatives. She also acknowledged Japan’s humanitarian efforts for the Rohingya people, including their relocation to Bhashan Char, and offered assistance in creating a plan for the early repatriation of the refugees.
The Foreign Adviser, in turn, expressed gratitude for Japan’s extensive support in Bangladesh’s development since its independence and reiterated the importance of cooperation on the Rohingya issue, including hosting a high-level conference on the matter in Doha with UN collaboration.
Vice-Minister Akiko emphasized the necessity of a free and open Indo-Pacific region for regional peace, and the Foreign Adviser reaffirmed Bangladesh’s support for regional stability, ensuring freedom of navigation for all.
The meeting also covered mutual collaboration in global forums, including the sharing of experiences in the electoral process. Both sides expressed optimism that this meeting would serve to strengthen the already robust bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Akiko further noted that over 310 Japanese companies are currently operating in Bangladesh, and this number is expected to grow, highlighting the deepening economic ties. The Foreign Adviser emphasized that the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) is proactive in improving the investment environment, ensuring the efficient functioning of the One-Stop Service (OSS) for foreign investors.
Liberty News’ national affairs correspondent reports that Akiko concluded by reinforcing Japan’s continued support for Bangladesh’s post-graduation phase from Least Developed Country status.
LND/BAIZID
