Japan has expressed interest in further expanding cooperation in Bangladesh’s transport and infrastructure development, including ongoing flagship projects such as metro rail, roads, bridges and expressways.
The assurance came during a courtesy meeting between Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Tanaka Akihiko and Road Transport, Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam at the Roads and Highways Department conference room in the capital on Thursday.
The meeting reviewed the progress of ongoing development projects and discussed future collaboration in infrastructure development, technical assistance, and capacity building in Bangladesh’s transport sector.
State Minister for Road Transport and Highways Division Habibur Rashid, Railway Secretary Md Fahimul Islam, Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Mohammed Ziaul Haque, Shipping Ministry Secretary Zakaria, and senior JICA officials were present at the meeting.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam said JICA has long been a key development partner in Bangladesh’s infrastructure modernisation, particularly in metro rail, road and bridge projects that have contributed to economic growth and improved connectivity.
He expressed hope that the partnership would be further strengthened in the coming years.
The minister also said the government is working to build a safe, modern and integrated transport system under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, highlighting the importance of continued support from international development partners in implementing transport and connectivity projects.
JICA President Tanaka Akihiko said Japan would continue to remain a reliable development partner for Bangladesh and extend its cooperation in both ongoing and future infrastructure projects.
He added that JICA remains committed to supporting Bangladesh’s development journey through technical and financial cooperation.
Both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration in metro rail development, integrated planning for the Matarbari region, road transport modernisation, and future infrastructure projects, while also reaffirming the longstanding friendly relations between Bangladesh and Japan.
