The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) marked a decade since the 2016 Holey Artisan Bakery attack on Wednesday, paying tribute to the seven Japanese nationals killed in the incident and reaffirming its commitment to Bangladesh’s development through continued cooperation.
The memorial ceremony, held at the Metro Rail Exhibition and Information Center in Uttara, brought together representatives of the governments of Bangladesh and Japan, family members of the victims, development partners and stakeholders to honour those who lost their lives and renew a shared commitment to peace, resilience and bilateral cooperation.
JICA said the seven Japanese nationals played a pivotal role in the early development of Bangladesh’s metro rail project, helping lay the foundation for the Dhaka Metro Rail, which now serves millions of commuters and symbolises the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
JICA President Tanaka Akihiko said the agency remained committed to carrying forward the aspirations of the victims despite Bangladesh’s political and social changes over the past decade.
“Bangladesh has gone through major political and social changes. However, the wish shared by those we have lost—that more people may live better and more fulfilling lives—remains alive in this country. We will carry their wishes forward, along with our strong commitment to safety, and continue our work in international cooperation,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by JICA South Asia Department Director General Yamada Tetsuya and JICA Bangladesh Chief Representative Takahashi Junko.
Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Shimada Tomoaki, Ambassador Saida Shinichi and other officials from the Japanese government and embassy also joined the event.
Representatives of companies involved in Bangladesh’s infrastructure development, including Katahira & Engineers International, Oriental Consultants Global, Tokyu Construction, TOA Corporation, Tekken Corporation, Nippon Signal, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Nippon Koei, Marubeni Corporation and Mitsubishi Corporation, were present.
Bangladesh was represented by Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Mohammad Ziaul Hoque, Economic Relations Division Additional Secretary and Japan Wing Chief Mohd Ahsan Kibria Siddiqui, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Managing Director Md Shaugatul Alam and other government officials.
Marking the 10-year milestone, JICA said it would continue supporting Bangladesh’s development journey, describing the Dhaka Metro Rail as a lasting testament to the countries’ partnership and their shared commitment to sustainable development, mutual respect and cooperation.
The agency also reiterated its resolve to pursue a future centred on peace, safety and inclusive development so that the legacy of those killed in the attack endures through continued collaboration between Bangladesh and Japan.
