Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on Japan to expand its cooperation with Bangladesh across key sectors including investment, fisheries, youth development, and the ongoing Rohingya humanitarian response.

The appeal came during a meeting with Miyazaki Katsura, Executive Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), held at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka.

“Japan has always been a trusted friend,” Prof Yunus said, reflecting on his recent visit to Japan. “I was deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality extended to me and my delegation.”

During the discussion, Prof Yunus highlighted the strategic importance of the Matarbari project, calling it “the most important region for our country’s future,” and stressed Bangladesh’s ambition to become a sea-based economy. He urged greater Japanese support in developing maritime infrastructure and skills.

On youth development, the chief adviser sought increased scholarships and employment opportunities for Bangladeshi students and workers in Japan. “Many of our young people want to work in Japan, but language is a barrier,” he noted, proposing the deployment of Japanese language teachers in Bangladesh or expanded distance learning programs.

The plight of the Rohingya also featured prominently. “Thousands of young people are growing up in camps with no hope. They are becoming frustrated and angry,” Prof Yunus said, appealing for Japan’s continued humanitarian assistance.

In response, Miyazaki reaffirmed Japan’s strong ties with Bangladesh. “Bangladesh remains one of our most important partners in Asia,” she said, also expressing condolences for those affected during the July uprising. She reiterated JICA’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development as it prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2026.

JICA is currently engaged in reforms in Bangladesh’s judiciary, public administration, local governance, and health sectors. Miyazaki also highlighted a new initiative focused on advanced ICT training in collaboration with governments, companies, and universities from both countries.

Prof Yunus praised the success of Bangladeshi women in sports, particularly football, and appealed for support in expanding training and healthcare facilities. Miyazaki responded positively, noting Japan’s ongoing volunteer involvement in educational initiatives and willingness to explore cooperation in women’s sports.

The chief adviser also thanked Japan for its recent signing of Loan and Grant Agreements totaling over $1 billion, supporting economic reforms, railway infrastructure, and human capital development. He proposed increasing Japan’s annual Official Development Assistance (ODA) threshold from 300 billion to 450 billion JPY to further accelerate development.

“Bangladesh will always remember Japan’s friendship and contributions,” Prof Yunus said, closing the meeting on a note of deep gratitude and optimism for future collaboration.

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