BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has described Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s four-day visit to Japan as a “historic” and “successful” achievement, saying it would contribute to rebuilding Bangladesh’s economy.
He said the visit resulted in $295.5 million in commitments, letters of intent and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries.
Rizvi made the remarks while speaking to journalists after welcoming the prime minister at the airport on Friday morning.
He said the visit, held from 26 to 29 October, focused on strengthening bilateral relations under the principle of “Big B for Prosperity”, which aims to promote shared prosperity between Bangladesh and Japan.
The two countries agreed to strengthen emerging economic ties, address supply chain risks and work together to tackle technological changes and geopolitical uncertainties, he said.
Rizvi said several discussions were held between ministries of the two countries on economic cooperation and improving the investment climate.
An MoU was signed on cooperation in agriculture, forestry and fisheries, while a letter of intent was signed on environmental protection and climate change, he added.
The BNP leader said Tarique Rahman also held meetings with development partners, representatives of economic and business organisations, and political leaders during the visit.
Although Bangladesh and Japan have longstanding friendly relations, Rizvi described the latest visit as particularly significant.
He alleged that Bangladesh’s economy had been weakened by corruption, looting and money laundering during the previous government.
The prime minister’s Japan visit was an important step towards economic recovery and rebuilding, he said.
Rizvi also said the visit reflected the government’s efforts to revive the economy through initiatives at both national and international levels.
“I believe this visit was successful and Bangladesh achieved a great deal from it,” he said.
