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TOKYO: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for greater Japanese investment in Bangladesh and stronger trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, highlighting opportunities in information and communication technology, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.
He made the call during a courtesy meeting with Masumi Kakinoki, chairman of Marubeni Corporation and head of the Committee for Trade and Economic Cooperation, at 3:45pm local time on Monday.
During the meeting, Tarique Rahman praised Kakinoki’s leadership in strengthening trade and economic cooperation between Bangladesh and Japan. He also thanked him for his role in expanding Japanese investment in Bangladesh and promoting business ties between the two countries.
The prime minister stressed the need to further consolidate the bilateral economic partnership.
Kakinoki expressed hope that effective implementation of the Economic Partnership Agreement would help expand bilateral trade, increase Japanese investment and create new business opportunities.
Tarique Rahman said Bangladesh offered significant investment opportunities in promising sectors through foreign direct investment and public-private partnerships.
He also sought Japan’s cooperation in assessing the prospects for modernising the Karnaphuli Fertiliser Company Limited and establishing a second fertiliser factory in the country.
The prime minister said the government was committed to creating an investment-friendly environment. It was working to expand opportunities for Japanese businesses through regulatory reforms, simplified investment approval procedures and stronger public-private partnerships.
Among those present at the meeting were Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Finance and Planning Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, State Minister for Foreign Affairs-1 Humaiun Kobir, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and Science and Technology Rehan Asif Asad, and Bangladesh Bank Governor Md Mostakur Rahman.
On October 11, a delegation led by Marubeni Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Masayuki Omoto met the prime minister. Their discussions covered cooperation and investment opportunities in information technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fertiliser and energy.