Diplomatic Desk:
Minister for Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs, Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, has said that the friendship between Bangladesh and Japan is rooted in mutual trust, common aspirations and progress. Terming Japan as one of Bangladesh’s most trusted development partners, he said, “The unwavering friendship between the two countries, built on mutual respect and trust, has grown steadily over the past few decades, and we are firmly committed to further strengthening Bangladesh’s strategic partnership with Japan for shared peace, prosperity and stability.”
The minister said this while delivering the chief guest’s speech at the National Day reception organized to mark the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan at the Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh in Dhaka on Tuesday (March 31, 2026).
He said that Bangladesh has recently completed a democratic transformation by successfully holding national elections. The priority activities of the current government include strengthening democratic institutions, establishing good governance, restoring economic stability, attracting investment, creating employment and ensuring transparency and accountability at all levels.
The Minister said that the Bangladesh government has launched the “Family Card” program to consolidate and expand the social security system of the people and is going to launch the “Agricultural Card” to support our farming community. He said, we value Japan’s continued cooperation in these areas, including human resource development and skill development.
Stating that the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Japan are built on strong economic cooperation, the Minister said that Japan, as the largest bilateral development partner of Bangladesh, has been making groundbreaking contributions in the infrastructure, energy and connectivity sectors. He termed the recent signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Bangladesh and Japan as an important milestone in the development of relations between the two countries. He also deeply appreciated Japan’s continued humanitarian assistance to the displaced Rohingya population, he said, Japan’s constructive engagement is essential for a sustainable solution in this regard.
He wished His Majesty the Emperor of Japan good health and long life, thanked everyone present at the event and expressed his gratitude to the Japanese Ambassador for inviting him to such a wonderful event.
The event was attended by Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh SAIDA Shinichi, Ambassadors of various countries in Bangladesh, High Commissioners, Heads of Mission, members of diplomatic missions and international organizations, and distinguished guests.
