PM, visiting adviser discuss Japan-backed megaprojects, including Third Terminal

Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman held talks with Japanese Prime Minister's Special Adviser Uno Yoshimasa, reviewing the progress of major Japan-backed infrastructure projects, including the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), while exploring ways to deepen strategic and economic ties between the two countries.

The meeting took place at the Bangladesh Secretariat on July 28, where the two sides discussed strengthening the Bangladesh-Japan strategic partnership, boosting Japanese investment, expanding human resource development, and enhancing bilateral economic cooperation, according to a press release from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

During the meeting, the prime minister urged Japan to recruit more skilled Bangladeshi workers, including healthcare professionals, agricultural workers, and drivers, by expanding Japanese language training opportunities in Bangladesh.

He also invited greater Japanese investment in the country and assured full government support for establishing additional industrial parks similar to the one in Araihazar, Narayanganj.

A key focus of the discussion was the progress of Japanese-funded infrastructure projects. The two sides reviewed preparations for the inauguration of the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on December 16, as well as the advancement of the ongoing Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) project and broader infrastructure cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan.

The meeting reaffirmed both countries' commitment to further strengthening collaboration in infrastructure development, investment, and economic partnership.

According to the PMO, both sides expressed optimism that the longstanding friendship between Bangladesh and Japan would continue to deepen through expanded cooperation in strategic sectors.