Diplomatic Desk:
The Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Mr. Shinichi Saida paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman at the Foreign Ministry on 24 February 2026.
During the meeting, the Ambassador congratulated Foreign Minister Dr. Rahman on his assumption of office and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations. The two sides discussed cooperation under the Employment Skill Development Programme (ESDP), with particular focus on skills enhancement and Japanese language training for Bangladeshi workers aspiring to work in Japan.
Foreign Minister Dr. Rahman underscored the importance of improved access to information and proposed the development of a digital matchmaking platform to facilitate recruitment of skilled Bangladeshi workers by Japanese employers.
The Ambassador conveyed an invitation for the Hon’ble Prime Minister to visit Japan at a mutually convenient time. Discussions were also held on defence procurement, metro rail cooperation, and mutual support in international forums.
Ms. Shama Obaed Islam, MP, State Minister for Foreign Affairs; Mr. Humayun Kabir, Adviser to the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Disaster Management and Relief, and Civil Aviation and Tourism; Mr. Mahdi Amin, Adviser to the Ministries of Education, Primary and Mass Education, Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and Labour and Employment; Dr. NeyamatUllahBhuiyan, Senior Secretary, Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment; and Mr. Asad Alam Siam, Foreign Secretary, were present, among others.
Earlier in the day, the Japanese Ambassador paid a courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Shama Obaed Islam. Recalling Japan’s early recognition of Bangladesh, the State Minister reaffirmed her commitment to advancing Bangladesh–Japan relations and appreciated Japan’s continued support, including on the Rohingya issue.
