TOKYO — Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called on the Japanese government and private sector to increase investment and strengthen cooperation in Bangladesh’s industrialization, economic development and technological advancement. He made the appeal during a bilateral summit with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo, where the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in energy, infrastructure, information and communication technology (ICT), trade and investment.
Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh aimed to become a regional hub for manufacturing, technology and economic activity, highlighting the country’s growth potential and opportunities for Japanese businesses. He noted that Bangladesh could become the world’s ninth-largest consumer economy by 2030, with its gross domestic product potentially exceeding $1 trillion by 2034.
The two leaders discussed a proposal to attract 1 trillion Japanese yen, equivalent to approximately $6.3 billion, in private investment in Bangladesh’s energy, infrastructure and ICT sectors. They also discussed sending a Japanese team to Bangladesh soon to accelerate the implementation of the proposed investment plan.
Emphasizing the importance of reliable and affordable energy supplies, Tarique Rahman thanked Japan for its longstanding support, including a recent 50 billion yen emergency assistance loan under the Partnership for Power Asia initiative. He called for increased Japanese investment in Bangladesh’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, efficient power generation and renewable energy.
To promote technology-driven growth, the prime minister proposed establishing a Bangladesh-Japan Tech Park to connect Japanese companies, universities and investors with Bangladesh’s young workforce, entrepreneurs and technology professionals.
The proposed facility would focus on artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, robotics and electronics manufacturing, creating opportunities for technology transfer, innovation and skilled employment. He also expressed interest in expanding bilateral cooperation in space science, satellite engineering and related advanced technologies.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s infrastructure ambitions, Tarique Rahman outlined plans to develop a high-speed railway network connecting the country’s six major divisional cities and a nationwide elevated-road network.
He sought Japanese technical assistance, investment and financing for the proposed projects, noting that Japan’s expertise in modern transportation and infrastructure development could support Bangladesh’s long-term economic goals.
The prime minister also welcomed fresh investment from Japanese companies and pledged to improve the business environment through greater transparency, predictable regulations, efficient tax policies, streamlined customs procedures and easier fund transfers.
He called for the early implementation of the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), emphasizing that both countries should work together to ensure its benefits reach their respective populations. Recalling the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Japan, Tarique Rahman said Japan held a special place in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people.
Japan was among the earliest countries to recognize Bangladesh following its independence in 1971 and has remained a major development partner, contributing to the country’s socioeconomic progress and infrastructure development.
The prime minister also recalled his father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s visits to Japan and his mother, former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s contributions to strengthening bilateral relations. He expressed his commitment to taking the partnership to a new level. On regional and international affairs, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, international peace and respect for international law.
Tarique Rahman thanked Japan for supporting Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman’s election as president of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He expressed hope for closer cooperation with Tokyo in addressing global challenges and strengthening multilateral institutions. He also emphasized a shared vision for a free, open, peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific, highlighting the importance of regional connectivity, free trade and sustainable economic growth.
The prime minister expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and the continuing displacement of Rohingya people. He called for an end to violence, unrestricted humanitarian assistance and dialogue among the parties concerned. He also appreciated Japan’s support for Bangladesh’s humanitarian efforts to shelter Rohingyas forcibly displaced from Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Urging Japan to remain actively engaged in efforts to restore regional peace and stability, Tarique Rahman said a lasting solution to the Rohingya crisis must be found in Myanmar. He stressed the need for the early repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to their homeland in a voluntary, safe and dignified manner.
Concluding the summit, Tarique Rahman expressed optimism that the meeting would open a new chapter in Bangladesh-Japan relations through stronger investment ties, broader economic cooperation and a shared commitment to peace and prosperity.
He proposed establishing a joint ministerial commission to identify priority sectors, accelerate the implementation of agreements and translate cooperation opportunities into concrete projects. He also emphasized stronger engagement between the business communities of both countries. The prime minister invited Takaichi to visit Bangladesh at a mutually convenient time.
Following the summit, the two leaders made a joint press announcement outlining the outcomes of their discussions and exchanged several memorandums of understanding in key areas. Takaichi also hosted an official luncheon in honour of the Bangladeshi prime minister at the Kantei.
Tarique Rahman arrived in Tokyo on Monday for a four-day official visit at Takaichi’s invitation. During the visit, he is also scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the Bangladesh-Japan Economic Forum and meet Japanese business leaders.
